Central Florida Lifestyle: Lake Nona April 2020 by Central Florida Lifestyle

AVA LO N PA RK | WATERFORD L AKE S | OVI ED O | W I NT ER S P R I N G S

APRIL 2020

LIFESTYLE

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+ LETTER From the Publisher

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+ WHAT’S Inside

Contents | April 2020 10

DID YOU KNOW?

ASK THE LAWYER

WINE & SPIRITS

Drinking Through the Decades

Features 12

4 FEEL-GOOD RECIPES

These recipes have one thing in common: they’re both satisfying and healthy.

DISCUSSING THE CORONAVIRUS WITH YOUR CHILD

Use these strategies to help your child understand the changes that are happening in their lives due to the pandemic.

THE ART OF MAKE BELIEVE

CARING PEOPLE, CARING FOR PEOPLE

DIY: HOW TO MAKE PAPER FLOWERS

Stretch your imagination to create your own unique chalk art in your driveway. How you can help Shepherd’s Hope ensure its services reach those in need. Add a pop of color to your home or office space with this fun family project.

STAY BUSY (NOT BORED) WHILE SOCIAL DISTANCING

Check out the resources that are available to us while we’re staying at home.

Departments

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

8 52

SPORTS & RECREATION

What to Watch While Social Distancing

8 Lawn Games to Keep You Busy 8 Ways to Get Fresh Air While Social Distancing

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

3 Easter Symbols & Their Meaning

What You Should Know About Trusts

3 Ways to Infuse Flavor Into Liquor

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Center for Independent Living

HOSPITALITY SPOTLIGHT

HEALTH & WELLNESS

What to Know About Spring Allergies

36 38 40 42

Public Servant of the Year

How to Make Journaling a Habit 10 Essential Oils & How to Use Them Yoga for You How to Stay Hydrated

28 44 48

HOMESTYLE

YOUR LOCAL

MONEY MATTERS

5 Tips for Designing a Home Gym Organize Your Home Like Marie Kondo How to Set up a Saltwater Aquarium

West Orange is Growing Every Day

3 Tools for Personal Finance

MONEY MATTERS

56 58

IN THE KITCHEN

SNAPSHOTS

3 Tools for Personal Finance

Let Your Indoor Garden Grow The Perfect Picnic

Community Happenings

+ ARTS & Entertainment

What To Watch

While Social Distancing Here are some of the most binge-worthy shows, and some early-release movies, that you won’t want to miss. By Kelly Gilmore

ocial distancing means staying at home, where you can pass the time by catching up on all the shows you’ve wanted to watch but haven’t had time. Here are some of our favorites.

Ozark

Jason Bateman plays a father from Chicago with a seemingly normal accounting job who is also the top money launderer for the second largest drug cartel in Mexico. After an attempt gone wrong, he moves his family to the Missouri Ozarks in a $500 million money laundering mission to please a druglord. Where to watch it: Netflix Why we like it: With three seasons of high-stakes drama, this show has plenty of binge-worthy episodes to keep you entertained for weeks.

Schitt’s Creek

A wealthy family is dramatically uprooted from their lavish lifestyle, and all they have left is a tiny town they purchased as a joke: Schitt’s Creek. As they navigate their new, not-so-glamorous life, they find themselves in humorous situations with the town’s cast of characters. Where to watch it: Netflix Why we like it: Stars like Eugene

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

Levy and Catherine O’hara make all six feel-good seasons binge-worthy!

Self Made

This four-part series tells the inspiring story of an African American washer-woman turned first female self-made millionaire. With an Alist cast that includes Tiffany Hadish and Ocatvia Spencer, this series tells the story of a woman’s climb to success. Where to watch it: Netflix Why we like it: It’s impossible to not feel both inspired and empowered with every episode.

Tiger King

Everyone is talking about this docuseries, which takes viewers inside the world of big cat facilities across the country. You will meet Joe Exotic, a wannabe reality star and convicted criminal; cult leader Doc Antle; and a zoo owner housing over 12,000 lions, tigers and bears (oh my!). Where to watch it: Netflix Why we like it: Tiger King captivates its audience with true-crime, comedy, oddity and gives an inside look at the underground world of many taboo topics!

Bring the Movie Theater Home As movie theaters started to close, streaming services jumped into action to bring movies straight to viewers at home. The following films were released early. Frozen 2: Disney+ added the second part of Anna, Elsa, Olaf and the whole gang’s story to the streaming service last month. This sequel takes you on Elsa’s journey as she seeks the truth about herself and an ancient mystery that is endangering her kingdom. Trolls World Tour: Universal Pictures is debuting this flick, which features Poppy and Branch’s journey to discover six tribes devoted to their own styles of music, on April 10. It can be rented for a 48-hour period for $19.99. Onward: You can follow the story of two elf brothers as they go on a fast-paced journey to spend one more day with their deceased father on Disney+ starting on April 3, or it can be purchased digitally and on Movies Anywhere for $19.99.

BEHIND-THE-SCENES EXPERIENCES

UP-CLOSE ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS

UNFORGETTABLE FRIENDSHIPS

SEAWORLD CAMPS: PRESCHOOL - 12TH GRADES This summer get up close to the ocean’s most amazing animals at Seaworld Camp. Visit with real animal experts and learn about dolphins, sea lions, sharks, and more. Plus enjoy all the thrills of your favorite rides.

LIFELONG MEMORIES BEGIN HERE

SeaWorldCamps.com/Orlando 407-545-5550 (option 5) Program components, pricing and availability subject to change.

+ SPORTS & Recreation

Lawn Games

to Keep You Busy

Keep yourself and your family active and entertained with these game ideas. By Lauren Margolis and Lyndsay Fogarty

ith spring in full bloom and summer right around the corner, there’s no better time to be outdoors. Team up with the family to enjoy this entertaining selection of lawn games.

1. Horseshoes: This old-school game doesn’t require much — just two metal stakes and four horseshoes — but it brings a lot of fun to an outdoor party. The goal is to throw your horseshoes closest to the stakes in a court that measures 50 feet in length. Play until you reach a predetermined number of points. 2. KanJam: Who knew that two goal containers and one flying disc could cause so much competition? The rules are easy: set the containers 50 feet apart, play to 21 points or to an instant win in teams of two or one-on-one, and take turns throwing. 3. Giant Games: Super-sized versions of classic party games, such as Jenga and beer pong, are rising 8

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

in popularity. Not only are they fun to play but they’re conversation starters, too. . 4. Bocce Ball: This game is easy to play and is fun for the whole family. Similar to horseshoes, players are required to set a target, which is called a jack, and throw an object, in this case a small ball, as close to it as possible. The first player to reach 13 points is the winner. You don’t need a special bocce court to play either, just make sure you’re playing on a flat surface and set your court at five to eight feet. 5. Miniature Golf: There are plenty of options for permanent or portable miniature golf games to play at home, or you can even build one yourself. Whether your course is challenging or easy, it will provide a ton of fun at any backyard barbecue. 6. Ladder Golf: All you need for this game is two ladder stands,

each with three steps, and three golf ball bolas (which is a nylon rope with a golf ball on both ends) for each stand. The top step of the ladder is worth three points, the middle is worth two points and the bottom is worth one point. Play to a perfect 21 without going over and knock your opponent’s bolas off the ladder to help you win. 7. Ring Toss: This is a great game for all ages because it’s a classic. You can even take the game from day to night by turning glow stick necklaces into rings. The kids will be mesmerized as they play with glow-in-the-dark rings, and it will add a fun touch to game night. 8. Football: This one is easy because you already know the rules. Put together your teams, grab a football and start playing. But first, mark up your field without killing your grass by using a temporary marking chalk like Krylon, which sprays like spray paint.

VIRTUAL YMCA WELLNESS CENTER

OW AVAILABLE RTUAL YMCA WELLNESS CENTER

Free online wellness resources to help you

STAY HEALTHY Spirit, Mind, and Body Find some of your favorite group exercise classes now online Explore enrichment activities to keep kids active and engaged Stay up-to-date on youth programs and camps Discover a variety of healthy living recipes Join a community in prayer and online worship See how you can help the Y support the community Visit ymcacf.org/virtualwellness to learn more today! The YMCA of Central Florida is an nonprofit dedicated to strengthening our community.

+ DID YOU Know?

Easter Symbols & Their Meaning

Learn about the history of Easter along with some of the holiday’s most iconic symbols. By Chelsea Santiago

hen Cadbury Eggs hit the shelves, we know that spring has arrived and Easter is right around the corner. It is a time known for dyed eggs and chocolate bunnies, steeped in cultural traditions and religious practices. However, there is a lot more to today’s Easter traditions than most people know. In fact, the word Easter can be traced back to the Anglo-Saxon goddess of dawn and springtime, Eastre or Eostre for the Germanic goddess. She represented fertility and was said to have owned a hare on the moon that loved eggs, both of which became symbols related to the goddess. Sound familiar? While the bunny rose in popularity in Europe through folk stories of the Ostara hare and believed to have been brought over to America through German immigrants in the 18th century, the custom of giving eggs at Easter has been traced back to Egyptians, Persians, Gauls, Greeks and Romans. Both have stuck with us today.

Ears or Tails

Real eggs aren’t the only way to get this iconic symbol in your basket. It’s become such a novelty and treat for the Easter holiday that the famous Cadbury brand produces more than 1.5 million of its delightful egg-shaped chocolate crème eggs a year. After Halloween, Easter has become the biggest candy-consuming holiday, with over 120 million pounds of candy bought each year. Today, 90 million chocolate bunnies are produced each year in the United States and 76 percent of people who buy them prefer to eat the ears on chocolate bunnies first.

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

While chocolate makes up for most of the candy sold for Easter, more than 16 million jellybeans are consumed and over 1.5 billion marshmallow Peeps are eaten during the holiday. This makes Peeps the most popular non-chocolate Easter candy.

Eggs

So why eat eggs on Easter morning? During the Middle Ages, eggs were one of the foods given up during Lent. Eggs became a popular dish — and even considered a treat — on Easter morning to celebrate the end of Lent. In medieval times, a festival of egg throwing was held in church, in which the priest would throw a hard-boiled egg to one of the choirboys. It was then tossed from one choirboy to the next and whoever held the egg when the clock struck noon was the winner and could keep it. Today, the egg toss is a popular activity at Easter festivals and parties. Between 1885 and 1917, the Russian Tsar, Alexander III, commissioned Peter Carl Faberge to create some of the most expensive Easter eggs as a gift for his wife. Thus began the illustrious jeweled Faberge eggs. Fifty Faberge eggs were made for the Royal family, known as the “Imperial” Easter eggs, but due to the Russian Revolution, in which the Romanov Dynasty was overthrown and all the members of the imperial family executed, several eggs were lost or destroyed. In 2014, one of the eggs was found in a U.S. flea market and nearly melted down for scrap metal before it was identified. Today, a total of 43 Imperial eggs are accounted for and the other seven left to be found. That is one expensive Easter egg hunt!

7 Egg Facts 1. The tallest chocolate Easter egg ever was made in Italy in 2011, at just over 34 feet in height and a little more than 15,873 pounds. 2. T he first chocolate egg was produced in the UK in 1873 by chocolatiers J.S Fry & Sons of Bristol. Two years later John Cadbury made his first Cadbury Easter Eggs. 3. I n 2007, a rare jewel-enameled egg sold for a record breaking $18.5 million. Every hour a rooster made of jewels pops up from the top of the Rothschild Faberge Egg, flaps its wings, nods its head and makes a crowing noise. 4. T he traditional act of painting eggs is called Pysanka, which originated in Ukraine. 5. F lorida held the largest Easter egg hunt in 2007, where 9,753 children searched for 501,000 eggs at Cypress Gardens Adventure Park in Winter Haven. 6. E gg dyes were once made out of natural items such as onion peels, tree bark, flower petals and juices. 7. Egg farmers across the country donate more than 11 million eggs to food banks across the nation to help Americans in need.

Springtime Symbols

Rabbits and eggs are often symbols for spring — a time for the growth of new plants and crops — because they’re also associated with fertility and new life.

All of these recipes have one thing in common: they’re both satisfying and healthy.

Sugar and Spice Popcorn Courtesy of The Popcorn Board You’re probably watching more Netflix these days. Make sure you snacks are anything but boring by shaking things up with some sweet heat. INGREDIENTS: • 2 quarts (8 cups) air-popped popcorn • 2 tablespoons brown sugar • 2 teaspoons chili powder • 2 teaspoons paprika • 2 teaspoons ground cumin • Butter-flavored cooking spray DIRECTIONS: Combine brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, and cumin in small bowl and mix well. Place cooked popcorn in bowl; spray lightly with cooking spray and sprinkle with spice mixture. Toss to mix until kernels are coated. Store in airtight container.

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

Gnocchi with Roasted Butternut Squash Courtesy of Cooper’s Hawk Winery Who needs comfort food? So do we. These soft pillows of fluffy gnocchi in a creamy sauce should do the trick. Consider adding a protein, such as chicken or shrimp, to make it a bit more hearty. INGREDIENTS: • 3/4 cup roasted butternut squash • 3 tablespoons butter •2 0 ounces cooked gnocchi, precooked and cooled (use store bought or make your own) • 1/4 cup caramelized onions • 1/2 teaspoon sage, chopped finely • 2 tablespoons Cooper’s Hawk Chardonnay • 1 cup chicken stock • 1/2 cup heavy cream • 2 cups lightly packed baby spinach leaves • 2 tablespoons grated Reggiano Parmesan cheese • Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper to taste • 1 1/2 teaspoons white truffle oil • 1/3 cup Reggiano Parmesan cheese, shaved fine

DIRECTIONS: Place a large saute pan on medium-high heat. Add butter and melt until lightly browned. When melted and light brown, add the cooked gnocchi. Allow the gnocchi to toast to golden brown, tossing every minute or so. While browning the gnocchi, warm the roasted butternut squash in a small pot, very slowly. Do not burn or scorch! When warmed through, cover and hold hot. Add the sage and caramelized onion to gnocchi. Toss well to incorporate and add with white wine. Allow the wine to cook dry, and immediately add chicken stock and cream. Simmer the gnocchi and sauce for 45 seconds, allowing the flavors to combine and the sauce to reduce slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and fresh cracked black pepper. Remove the pan from the heat and add spinach. Toss well to incorporate and wilt the spinach. Immediately add the grated Parmesan and toss well to incorporate and to flavor and thicken the sauce. Remove to a platter and, using a spoon, place the roasted butternut squash in small even mounds across the top of the gnocchi, and drizzle the entire plate with truffle oil. Sprinkle with shaved Parmesan cheese just before serving. If using, add pulled chicken or shrimp to the gnocchi after the cream has begun reducing.

For the full recipe, which includes details about how to roast the butternut squash and make fresh gnocchi, visit

bit.ly/roastedbutternutsquashgnocchi www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

Orange Chicken Quinoa Bowl Courtesy of Lisa Cooper, MS, RD, LDN, Orlando Health Center for Health Improvement Savor the flavors of Florida with this citrus-based meal. Full of lean protein, veggies and healthy fats, it’s a guiltfree dish that the whole family will love. INGREDIENTS: • 1 cup Florida orange juice • 2 cups water • 1 cup quinoa • 1 tablespoon hot sauce • 1 tablespoon honey • 1 tablespoon soy sauce • 6 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided • 2 tablespoons lime juice • 1 tablespoon white miso • 1 1/2 pounds chicken • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt • 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper • 1 bell pepper, diced • 1 English cucumber, sliced into half moons • 3 scallions, sliced • 1 avocado, sliced • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds • 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped • 2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) DIRECTIONS: Place water in a pot and bring to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork. While quinoa is cooking,

place Florida orange juice, hot sauce, honey, soy sauce, four tablespoons vegetable oil, lime juice, and miso in a bowl and whisk together. Remove half and set aside. Add chicken to remaining half and marinate for 15 minutes. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add two tablespoons oil. Add chicken to wok and sauté until no longer pink and cooked through. Optional: add 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes to chicken. Place ½ cup quinoa in a bowl and top with pepper, cucumber, scallions, avocado, and chicken. Drizzle with dressing that was set aside and garnish with sesame seeds and cilantro. This recipe was adapted from the Florida Orange Juice Shrimp Quinoa Bowl recipe from www.FloridaCitrus.org

Curried Sweet Potatoes with Almonds Courtesy of YMCA of Central Florida The Y is committed to helping people adopt healthier, more balanced lifestyles in many ways, including its healthy living initiatives. Here, the organization shares a healthy recipe that would make for a tasty side dish or vegetarian main dish. INGREDIENTS: • 4 medium sweet potatoes • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk • 1/2 teaspoon curry powder • 4 thinly sliced pieces of fresh ginger • Kosher salt to taste • 1/2 lime • Toasted sliced almonds, for garnish • Fresh chopped cilantro for garnish 14

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

DIRECTIONS: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Wrap each sweet potato in foil, put on a baking sheet and bake until soft, approximately 1 hour. Remove from oven and let cool. Combine the almond milk, curry powder and ginger in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer until the mixture is reduced by a third, about 5 minutes. Strain in a fine mesh strainer and discard ginger. Pour any accumulated juices from the sweet potato foil wrappers into a food processor. Cut sweet potatoes in half and scoop out flesh into your food processor. Add the almond milk mixture, pinch of salt and puree until smooth. Transfer to a serving bowl and squeeze the lime over the finished puree. In a small dry sauté pan over low heat add almonds and toss till slightly warmed and golden. Garnish with almonds and cilantro serve warm.

Family Medicine Excellence in Winter Park

Dr. Melissa Morello is board certified in family medicine. She calls Baldwin Park home and practices just around the corner at the Center for Health & Wellbeing. Along with treating acute and chronic illnesses in patients ages six years and older, her areas of interest include women’s health and pediatrics. • Chronic disease management • Dermatologic care • Geriatric medicine • Men’s and women’s health • Minor injury care • Pediatrics (ages six and up)

Melissa Morello, MD

• School, sports and annual physicals • Sick visits Now Accepting New Patients To schedule an appointment, call 407-646-7380.

AdventHealth Medical Group Family Medicine at Center for Health & Wellbeing 2005 Mizell Avenue, Suite 1600 A | Winter Park, FL 32792 AdventHealthMedicalGroup.com

20-AHMG-02852

+ ASK The Lawyer

Everything You Need to Know

AboutTrusts

How to navigate a family member’s trust account as durable power of attorney to ensure you have access to necessary funds for their care.

My parents are in a nursing home together with little certainty they will return home. My mother has been diagnosed with stage 5 dementia and my father’s health is deteriorating rapidly after suffering a severe heart attack. As successor trustee for their trust and agent on their durable powers of attorney, I entered their bank to obtain funds to manage their health care costs and personal monthly obligations. Sadly, the bank said my parents’ trust documents don’t authorize my access to their funds because their accounts are in the name of their trust and I’m not an acting trustee. How can I obtain access to my parents’ trust account to pay their monthly mortgage, utilities and daily health care?

By Kristen M. Jackson, Jackson Law P.A.

The bank is correct that successor trustees or agents named in powers of attorney generally cannot gain access to accounts while the owners (grantors) and initial trustees of the trust are still living. Let me clarify. For a husband and wife with a joint revocable trust, the agent named in a Power of Attorney cannot use it to access trust funds. Only a Trustee can. Either spouse as trustee can access a trust bank account alone, meaning, if one spouse is not able to act due to incapacity, the other spouse can access the account individually. Kristen M. Jackson is the founding partner of Jackson Law PA (407-363-9020). She is experienced in estate planning, real estate law, business and contract law. Her firm has earned an AV rating by MartindaleHubbell signifying the highest level of professional excellence as obtained through opinions from members of the bar and judiciary.

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

There are exceptions, although they require certain legal steps. • The successor trustee cannot act unless both spouses are unable or unwilling to act. • If neither spouse is competent, a physician’s affidavit stating they aren’t able to manage their financial affairs is required for the successor trustee to act. • If one spouse is incompetent and the other is competent, the competent spouse may resign as trustee, allowing the successor to act. A physician’s affidavit is required for an incompetent spouse. • Furthermore, a successor trustee should sign an acceptance agreeing to serve as trustee. There are options that provide immediate access to your parents’ funds. • One option is to keep the account in their names and designate their trust as beneficiary. This type of account is a Payable on Death (POD) or

Transfer on Death (TOD) account. It wouldn’t become part of the trust assets until both spouses die, but you could utilize the power of attorney to access the account. • A second option is for your parents to name you as a co-trustee on their trust with the authority to act independently without their joinder or consent. However, this can only be done while both have the capacity to do so. • Another option is for your parents to add you to their individually owned bank account. While this gives you access, it isn’t the best option. It could expose their funds to your creditors or cause their disqualification for certain government benefits like Social Security Supplemental Income, Veterans Benefits or Medicaid. Should the ability to access your parents’ funds become an immediate necessity, consult with an estate planning attorney promptly.

+ WINE & Spirits

Drinking Through the

Decades

Your guide to the most popular cocktails of the past 100 years. By Lyndsay Fogarty

veryone has a go-to cocktail. Maybe it’s a vodka martini or a Long Island Iced Tea. But have you ever thought about the history of each drink? Who made it first and how did it become the “it” cocktail of its era? Here’s a timeline of some of the most popular cocktails of each decade. 1920s – French 75 During the Prohibition era, two key ingredients transformed bootleg liquor into a palatable cocktail: citrus and 18

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

sugar. Despite their best efforts to disguise it, the drinks were quite strong. A prominent cocktail from this time period was the French 75, a mixture of gin, lemon juice, simple syrup and champagne. Make it with dry champagne so it’s not too sweet.

to have been created by Fernand Petiot in Paris in 1921. He introduced it to patrons of the St. Regis Hotel in New York when he began working there in 1934. Brunch has once again boosted its popularity with modern variations including unusual additions like clam juice or sake.

1930s – Bloody Mary This cocktail, which was originally made with only vodka and tomato juice, is believed

1940s – Mai Tai While Manhattans and Sidecars ruled bar menus in the 1940s, so, too, did island-inspired cocktails.

WINE & Spirits + As the country faced World War II, many Americans dreamed of tropical escapes, leading to the tiki era. The head of the Trader Vic restaurant claimed to invent the Mai Tai in 1944, featuring rum, lime, orgeat, orange curacao and simple syrup. These days the cocktail is heavier on the juices. 1950s – Martini Gin was all the rage in the ‘50s and so was the martini. While the original recipe featured gin, vermouth and an olive garnish, vodka eventually became a suitable liquor replacement. This cocktail has stood the test of time but it has also evolved. Gin and vodka martinis are still regularly ordered at bars across the country as well as chocolate, espresso and other sweet varieties. 1960s – Whiskey Sour This cocktail got its start in 1862 and was created using fresh lemon juice, powdered sugar dissolved in seltzer water and bourbon or rye whiskey. It was a popular choice through the Prohibition and eventually became a staple at ‘60s-era dinner parties. At that time, pre-made sour mix took the place of fresh ingredients and some indviduals chose to add an egg white to make it frothy. 1970s – Harvey Wallbanger A fitting cocktail for the time period, the Harvey Wallbanger is as flashy as the disco balls that lit the dance floor of 1970s nightclubs. Back then, Galliano, a liqueur with flavors of vanilla and anise, was extremely popular. When you float it over a screwdriver (vodka and orange juice), you get a sweet, neon drink that’s easy to make and even easier to imbibe.

1980s – Long Island Iced Tea The ‘80s were a decade of sweet cocktails with plenty of booze. It was around then that TGI Friday’s claimed the creation of the Long Island Iced Tea, which was the happy hour drink of choice. With four types of alcohol – vodka, gin, rum and tequila – it was the perfect cocktail for the brand’s flair bartenders to whip up between bottle flips. However, others tend to agree that it was actually invented at Long Island’s Oak Beach Inn in 1972.

beer, served in a cool copper mug with lime wedges, has been trending at bars across the country. It’s a light, refreshing drink that can pack a punch. While you can’t beat the classic, slight variations have brought this cocktail to another level, including the Mexican Mule and Kentucky Mule, which swap the vodka for tequila and bourbon respectively.

1990s – Boozy Milkshakes People were drinking their dessert in the ‘90s, and, of course, they were adding booze. Popular varieties were the Mudslide, a mixture of Kahlua, Bailey’s and vodka blended with vanilla ice cream, and the Grasshopper, a pretty green concoction made with crème de menthe, crème de cacao and vanilla ice cream. Typically made with liqueurs, the boozy milkshakes of this era wouldn’t necessarily get you drunk, but they tasted good. 2000s – Cosmopolitan Carrie Bradshaw and her girls made drinking Cosmos around the Big Apple look good on “Sex and the City” from the late ‘90s to the early 2000s. Even after the show went off the air in 2004, pop culture embraced the pink cocktail and it continues to be a popular choice. Probably because the mixture of vodka, Cointreau, cranberry juice and fresh lime juice goes down easy and isn’t too sweet. 2010s – Moscow Mule For the past several years, the combination of vodka and ginger

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

+ HOW YOU CAN Help

A Foundation for

Freedom

The Center for Independent Living’s Foundation to Freedom program provides home modifications and equipment for individuals with disabilities.

By Kelly Gilmore

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

CIL recently worked with Jim and Moe Campbell, seniors who reside in Oviedo, to provide resources that have helped them live more independently. “I cannot thank CIL enough for what they provided my husband,” Moe says. “We received an amplified phone, walker and ramp, which we would not have been able to afford on our own. Having all of these things has made our life a lot easier.” Through the Foundations to Freedom program, individuals can

receive the needed modifications or equipment at no charge, and the need in the Central Florida community is large. There are currently about 355 people on the waiting list, with an additional five being added on a weekly basis. CIL relies on monetary donations and the donation of wish list items to fulfill its mission. By supporting their efforts, independence can become a reality for our neighbors with disabilities.

How You Can Help One of the easiest ways to help CIL is by shopping through Amazon Smile. Simply add “Center for Independent Living in Central Florida, Inc.” as your beneficiary then shop as you usually would. You could also donate items directly from their wish list, such as the following. •S onic Bomb Vibrating Alarm Clock •N uTone Doorbell Kit with Strobe Lights •G ENTEX Photoelectric Smoke Alarm Medline Walker with Seat •M edline Excel Extra-Wide Wheelchair •A luminum Wheelchair Access Ramps •M oen Home Bathroom Grab Bars •D rive Medical Plastic Tub Transfer Bench •D rive Medical Commode Extender •C leanCut Step Bathtub Accessibility Kit •D rive Medical Premium Shower Chair

Jim and Moe Campbell

COURTESY OF CENTER FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

ot many people give a second thought to being able to step into the shower or walk through a doorway. However, for individuals with disabilities, these seemingly everyday tasks can be difficult to achieve due to barriers within their own homes. The Center for Independent Living of Central Florida is here to help individuals of any age and any disability get their independence back. The organization’s Foundations to Freedom program alleviates barriers by working with community partners to modify homes and provide durable medical equipment and assistive services that create increased safety. “Individuals with disabilities, including seniors, can often feel isolated and, due to financial reasons, are unable to get the right tools they need access the world around them,” Brittany Pilcher, development director of CIL, says. “The Foundations to Freedom program provides much-needed home modifications and adaptive equipment for our population who needs it most.” In addition to ramps, home modifications include the installation of grab bars, raised toilets and roll-in showers; interior and exterior door widening; ADA-compliant sinks and toilets; and countertop adjustments. Adaptive equipment ranges from hospital beds, shower chairs and walkers to alarm clocks, doorbells and smoke alarms that are made with flashing elements specifically for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Our Foster Parents

Providing Hope to Children and Families in Need For children and teens without a safe, nurturing environment, the future can seem dark and uncertain. Foster parents provide a gift of a lifetime by opening their home and their hearts. Their ongoing caring commitment is critical for giving children and teens in need a chance at fulfilling their potential and enjoying a life of success. There is a great need for foster parents in the Central Florida area. Seek out ways you can support children and teens in foster care and assist those who have dedicated themselves to helping those in need. Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Florida is currently seeking potential foster parents to provide a stable and caring home for children in need, including survivors of sexual exploitation. Specialized training and ongoing professional support is provided for foster families.

For more information, call (407) 259-0056 or email FLFosterCare@devereux.org.

FLORIDA devereuxFL.org

+ EXPERT ADVICE | Health

Discussing the Coronavirus with Your Child

Use these strategies to help your child understand the changes that are happening in their lives due to the pandemic.

By Dr. Alicia Coonce, Community Health Centers - Tavares

irst, it is important to understand what exactly COVID-19 is and why it has become a case for concern. The human coronaviruses are a family of viruses that are most typically known for causing the common cold. Most people have been exposed to one of these viruses at some point in their lives. We all know what the common cold is: cough, runny nose, fever that lasts for a few days and then resolves. Most people do not seek medical attention for this and the media never writes a story about the 22

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

common cold. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s common! So why is this any different? The difference is that the COVID-19 virus is a new coronavirus. It was first discovered in China in December 2019. The virus is named SARS-CoV-2 and the disease it causes is the â&#x20AC;&#x153;coronavirus disease 2019â&#x20AC;?, abbreviated as COVID-19. In the past few months it seems to have rapidly spread from China and is now worldwide. Because it is a new virus, it is hard to predict how it will affect people. We are continu-

ing to learn more and more about the new virus every day. Fortunately, for the majority of cases, symptoms are mild much like the common cold; however, this virus is very contagious and can be dangerous to older people and people with underlying medical conditions such as lung disease, heart disease, diabetes and suppressed immune systems (i.e. cancer, HIV, or other immunodeficiency). The CDC recently reported that 16% of cases in China resulted in serious illness.

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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 $78 million in economic impact on our region.

+ EXPERT ADVICE | Health So why all the precautions?

Although this illness is mild for children and otherwise healthy adults, we all affect the health of those around us and must take necessary precautions to keep those around us healthy. There have been multiple cases of people without symptoms testing positive for the virus. This means they can pass the disease without knowing they are sick. If they pass it to a healthy person who then takes it home to an elderly loved one or a chronically ill family member, they can give them a potentially serious illness, which could result in death. This is why the CDC is asking everyone to take the necessary precautions of social distancing, washing hands frequently, only going out of the house when necessary, and limiting contact with older adults and persons with chronic diseases.

So how do we discuss this with our children?

COVID-19 has dramatically changed our daily lives for the time being and you are stressed, scared, or even annoyed. Now imagine how your young child is feeling. This can be overwhelming and lead to behaviors that can create a stressful home. They might have questions that you do not know how to answer. After all, we are all trying to make the best of an unprecedented situation. Here are some recommendations from pediatricians and family psychologists on how to discuss the situation with your children. Start off by asking them questions about what they know. The conversation should be age directed. It is very possible that what your child is worried about is not what you are worried about. For instance, you might be concerned about the light bill and having enough food for dinner, whereas your first grader might be worried if he is going to see his friends again or not. These are two very different conversations. So, start the conversation with, “Tell me what you know about what is happening?” or “What are you worried about or

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

scared of?” Then you can direct your answers accordingly. Remember, limit your response to simply answering the question and providing comfort with reassurance.

For toddlers and preschoolers, limit your discussion.

• Reiterate that your child is perfectly safe and they can do a big part by doing as you do (washing hands, coughing into a tissue or their elbow, and using hand sanitizer frequently). • Try to create a safe environment and limit any concerning tones or conversation to areas where your child cannot hear you.

For early elementary school ages (K-2nd grade), use concrete terms.

• Ex: “Yes, there is a virus that is like the cold that you have had in the past. You are just fine now and will continue to be. However, it is important we keep everyone healthy by washing hands, etc. (as above).”

For late elementary school ages (3rd-5th grade), expand on what you tell them but try to omit terms like death and dying.

• You can tell them this can be a bad cold (like the flu) for people who are older and they can play a big part in keeping everyone healthy.

• It is important for them to feel empowered and that they can do something to help. Remember social distancing, hand hygiene, and avoiding trips to older relatives’ houses.

For children over 10 years old, start to discuss more of the science of what is going on if you feel like your child is developmentally appropriate.

• Again, avoid terms that can lead to anxiety, feelings of impending doom, or fears of dying. • Stick to the facts: This is a cold-like illness that is mild in children and other healthy people, but spreads quickly, so we must take precautions to protect those who are not healthy. • Again, try to empower your child in how they can help. Overall, remember to be a good role model. Your children are looking to you and watching how you react. Avoid social media and excessive media coverage on TV. Try to keep your daily routines as much as possible. Wake up at your typical time, eat breakfast, do schoolwork, go to bed at typical bedtime, etc. Have clear expectations, give clear directions, and try to spend time with your children as much as possible in a fun and playful manner.

HOSPITALITY Spotlight +

Public Servant of the Year

ach year, The Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association (CFHLA) recognizes a community leader as the Public Servant of the Year for their dedication to the advancement of Central Florida’s hospitality industry. The 2019 Public Servant of the Year is Osceola County Commissioner, Peggy Choudhry. This award was presented at CFHLA’s February Luncheon on Thursday, Feb. 27, at

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

the DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld. Commissioner Choudhry has proven to be a valuable partner through her service on tourism-related boards and councils that have helped attract more than 8 million overnight visitors to Osceola County annually. Prior to serving District 1 as a Commissioner, she successfully owned and operated a hotel of her own for nearly 10 years on the US 192 corridor. Throughout her first term on the County Commission, Choudhry has advocated for the preservation of the Tourist Development Tax and the continued funding of local initiatives to bring visitors to Central Florida. CFHLA congratulates Commissioner Choudhry for continuing to advance Central Florida’s tourism and hospitality industry.

CFHLA 2019 Public Servant of the Year, Osceola County Commissioner, Peggy Choudhry

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+ EXPERT ADVICE | Health

What You Should Know about

Spring Allergies Your runny nose and itchy eyes could be due to allergies. Here’s how to tell. By Aishah Ali, MD, UCF Health

hile springtime means warmer weather and beautiful blooms, it also means that it’s the beginning of allergy season. With trees and flowers popping up all around, pollen becomes a major player when it comes to allergies.

Pollen Season Facts

During the beginning of the season, tree pollen is most common. Around mid-spring, grass pollen comes into play. Eventually, as summer and fall approach, weed-related allergies are added to the mix. Blooming flowers and trees aren’t the only common indication that pollen season has arrived. The yellow-colored residue on your car and other uncommon places is actually pollen itself — a clear sign that your stuffy nose could be allergies rather than a cold.

A Cold vs. Allergies

It’s difficult to distinguish between a cold and allergies, specifically for individuals who have frequent colds, since the symptoms correlate in many ways.

Dr. Aishah Ali, MD, is an allergy expert who offers relief to her patients through effective testing, counseling, medication and immunotherapy. Learn more at ucfhealth.com

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

However, a fever, chills and green or yellow colored nasal mucus are likely signs of a cold, not allergies. Itching in the eyes, nose, ears and throat, along with clear nasal discharge and sneezing, are common allergy symptoms that could also overlap with cold symptoms in some cases. Frequent sinus infection symptoms may indicate that you have uncontrolled allergies.

Providing Relief

Over-the-counter medications such as Allegra, Claritin, Zyrtec and Xyzalm or their generics, can be purchased at your local drug store. All are 24-hour, non-sedating medications, also known as second-generation antihistamines. They can be taken daily to relieve chronic allergy symptoms. It’s typically safe to switch between antihistamines if one isn’t working for you. Generics of the antihistamines are a great option and work just as well as name brands and prescriptions. First-generation, sedating antihistamines include Benadryl and Diphenhydramine. They work short-term for about six hours and aren’t recommended for chronic allergy symptoms. If nasal congestion continues to be a problem, consider adding a nasal steroid such as Flonase, Fluticasone and Nasacort along with your antihistamine. Some of these medications are available over the counter. One spray per nostril is recommended while your symptoms persist. There are other prescription nasal sprays available. Always consult your

doctor when adding nasal sprays to discuss potential side effects. Other nasal sprays, such as Afrin, aren’t intended for allergy relief and are recommended to relieve cold symptoms only. Ask your allergist or doctor which is right for you.

Immunotherapy Alternatives

Some patients don’t find enough relief from antihistamines or nasal sprays. If this is the case for you, consider exploring immunotherapy. There are two types: allergy shots, or subcutaneous immunotherapy, and sublingual immunotherapy, such as tabs taken orally. Both are effective, and the tabs are a good option for people who either don’t want shots or are too busy for the allergy shot visits. The long-term goal of immunotherapy is to relieve your allergy symptoms for good by altering your immune system. Results aren’t guaranteed and are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Other Culprits

In the Sunshine State, many of these pollen sources can bloom yearround along with other allergy culprits. Some widespread factors include dust mites, mold and pet dander. If you think you are dealing with allergies, consult an allergist. They can perform tests to find out exactly what you’re allergic to and work with you to find relief through multiple options.

+ HOMESTYLE

5 Tips

for Designing a Home Gym

Learn how to turn a spare room into a custom workout space.

By Brittany Tai and Tarre Beach

ometimes the hardest part about going to the gym is actually going to the gym. For those who want to exercise but don’t want to leave the house, fret no more. Here are some helpful tips to get you started on creating your own home gym.

Designate Space

First, find a room or area in your home that is large enough to house the equipment you will need and that has enough ventilation. Many houses have dead zones where the air conditioning putters out. That’s not the room you want to be swearing it out in.

Make it Look and Feel Like a Gym

Include items that will contribute to your exercise. A TV is a great way to make your workout go by fast and can be useful when following

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

along to a workout channel. But if you have a couch or recliner in there, you may not work out. If you need to use it for guests when you have visitors, you may want to purchase a futon or an air mattress that can easily be put in the garage when guests are not in town. Remember, this is a workout room first.

Find the Right Equipment for You

When purchasing exercise equipment, make sure that it’s something that you will use. If you hate rowing, don’t buy a rowing machine. Treadmills, stationary bikes or elliptical trainers are tried and true pieces that most find useful. For weight training, you may want to find one machine that can work out more than three areas of your body, rather than three different machines. That will save a lot of space and money. Of course, free weights are great too.

Personalize Your Space

Stock up on good music. There are great sites that feature music where you can pick measured beats to warm up, increase your heart rate and cool down to. You may also want to consider installing a music system to enhance the experience. Anything that makes your home gym more enticing is great. This should be a place you want to go, not one you’ll avoid. An aromatherapy diffuser is a nice addition. Orange, jasmine, peppermint and grapefruit fragrances are all known for energizing qualities.

Make Sure You Can See It

Finally, keep your gym door open so you see it. This is not a room to be hidden away. Let it be a constant reminder of your commitment to exercise and improve or maintain your good health.

+ YOUR Local

West Orange is Growing,

Growing Every Day

Windermere area residential (top) and March luncheon hosted by the Town of Oakland (bottom).

A snapshot of what West Orange County’s top towns are planning both commercially and residentially. By Stina D’Uva

Horizon West

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

struggling to keep up with the demand. However, our local leaders are aware of the issues, and they work together for regional gains. I have the pleasure of meeting with our County Commissioner Betsy VanderLey and the mayors and managers of Oakland, Kathy Stark and Steve Koontz; Ocoee, Rusty Johnson and Rob Frank; Windermere, Jim O’Brien and Robert Smith; Winter Garden, John Rees and Mike Bollhoefer; and our school board representatives, Pam Gould and Melissa Byrd, on a quarterly basis. These informal luncheons generate wonderful ideas that strengthen our region. The region is so strong that there is too much to talk about, and I know I won’t do them justice. However, here’s just a snapshot for these communities which is why we continue to attract new residents. Oakland, even though nearly built out for residential projects, is working on commercial development along SR 50 and is building The Healthy West Orange Arts and Heritage Center along the West Orange Trail. Ocoee hasn’t only seen growth in residential units but also in its areas for commercial development with projects in the Community Rede-

velopment Agency area along SR 50, Maguire and Clarke Roads, and a master plan for its downtown. A new city hall will break ground later this year and will be located near the Lakeshore Event Center on Starke Lake. Hamlin in Horizon West, a sustainably designed, 900-acre development with more than 2,000,000 SF of commercial entitlements is the town center for this area with a movie theater, shopping, dining and soon a 200-plus-acre regional park. Windermere maintains its small town feel by hosting monthly activities for its residents and neighbors including farmer’s market and food trucks. Winter Garden is ranked as one of the best places in Florida to raise a family and start a business. This is due in great part to its historic downtown, which continues to grow with a new boutique hotel and more restaurants, shops and businesses situated along the popular West Orange Trail. It’s no wonder West Orange continues to grow and grow. We are the “Best” place, no if ands or buts about it!

COURTESY OF WEST ORANGE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ack in 1989, when I moved from New Jersey to Orlando, I thought I had died and gone to heaven. Not that I didn’t like New Jersey, but when I learned there was a place in my very own country where the sun shines every day, I knew I would never go back. I’m not the only one who loves sunshine since nearly 750,000 people followed me here. Orange County’s population grew from 650,500 people in 1989 to nearly 1.4 million this year. The people haven’t stopped coming, with 1,500 new residents moving into Orange County every week. With this population gain, there are challenges. Housing, schools, roads and parks are all

+ MONEY Matters

Axiom Bank: Three Tools for Personal Finance

Technology is simple and it’s accessible. But, for most of us, those words don’t come to mind when we think of financial management.

By Lyndsay Fogarty

“T

here’s an app for that.” It’s sometimes said as a joke, but there really does seem to be a tech-based solution to most of life’s daily problems. With a tap, swipe or scroll, we can buy groceries, enroll in an online course, start a new fitness routine or do business across the world. Technology is simple and it’s accessible. But, for most of us, those words don’t come to mind when we think of financial management. That’s why financial institutions like Axiom Bank are using technology to bring ease and convenience into the lives of their customers. Mobile banking puts control of your finances where it belongs – with you. When it comes to technology, Axiom is determined to push the envelope further. Recently, we spoke with Urjit Patel, Executive Vice President of Consumer Banking, about how Axiom is working to make life easier for customers.

Deposit anywhere

Soon, Axiom users will be able to make deposits almost anywhere, even if there’s no Axiom Bank branch or participating ATM. “You won’t have to worry about where life

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

takes you,” says Patel. “It takes one small source of stress away.”

Online-only saving

“Some statistics show that twothirds of Americans don’t have the capacity to handle a $500 emergency,” Patel says, referencing this report. “That’s a big problem. Plenty of people want to save more, but they don’t know where to start.” Axom Bank recently introduced a new savings account that offers a competitive rate. Anyone can start putting their money to work for them by walking into one of the 21 Axiom branches and opening a Big Savings account with a $25 deposit.

Checking for teens

As any parent knows, it’s a challenge to teach your kids strong financial values. There’s a fine balance between helping them manage their funds and giving them the independence to make sound decisions. That’s why Axiom Bank offers teen accounts. Parents can visit a branch with their 16 and 17-year-old children to establish an account, which they can monitor activity through the Axiom Bank app.

“It’s about giving kids a safe space to interact with real financial instruments like checking, saving and budgeting,” says Patel. “When they handle money as adults, they’ll be ready.” With Axiom Bank’s app, anyone can be an expert in personal finances. Just set up an account in minutes from your smartphone or tablet, and you’ll be able to manage your money from the palm of your hand. “Everything we do is designed to make life easier for our users,” says Patel. “But when someone needs help, all our experts are located in one place, ready to provide answers.”

About Axiom Bank Axiom Bank N.A., a nationally chartered community bank headquartered in Central Florida, provides retail banking services, including checking, deposit, and money market accounts. It also offers commercial banking services, treasury management services and commercial loans for real estate and business purposes.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

artbelieve the

of make

Stretch your imagination as a family to create your own unique chalk art in your driveway. By Ashley Moore and Catie Moore Photos by Brady Gin Photography

Set Your Imagination Free

The whole family can get involved in this chalk art project. All you need is a box of chalk, a clear concrete space and your imagination. We included some ideas here to get you started, but the beauty of this activity is that it can be anything you want it to be. The fun comes from planning it out together based on the things your family loves to do.

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

Theme it to your family’s favorite vacation destination. Whether your trips are to the beach, the mountains or a theme park, the opportunities for a cute vacation souvenir are endless. Brainstorm this one together so you can include everyone’s favorite moments.

Theme it to your child’s interests. Anything will work here, from sports like basketball and gymnastics to activities such as ballet, karate or playing an instrument. The photo could be a fun gift for your child’s teacher.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

+ HEALTH & Wellness

How to Make

Journaling a Habit Utilize these five tips if you’re ready to become a journaling pro. By Christie Fogarty

ournaling has many health and wellness benefits, from stress management to mindfulness. Take this time to incorporate writing into your day-to-day schedule to take full advantage of these benefits. • Make it part of your routine. Find 30 minutes in your everyday routine to make time for writing, whether you decide to wake up 30 minutes earlier or you take some personal time later in the evening. In his TED Talk, Matt Cutts, an engineer for Google, discussed a 30-day challenge in which participants come up with a goal, such as writing in a journal each morning, and try it for 30 days. He found that after 30 days, it very well could become a habit. Do it when your mind is fresh. • There isn’t a “right time” to write in your journal. You may be a morning

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

person or you may be a night owl, but what’s most important is that you’re writing when you’re most refreshed. Find a time in the day where you’re relaxed and your mind is clear so that you can properly communicate your feelings in writing. When your mind is free of distractions, you will be able to create the best content. • Start slow and don’t rush it. Write as little or as much as you want in the beginning so that writing in your journal doesn’t become stressful. Life happens, so if you decide to skip a day, don’t be too hard on yourself. You can even try taking your journal with you everywhere you go. That way, you can write whenever you’re feeling inspired. Once you find your flow and it becomes routine, start incorporating goals into your journaling sessions. Writing should be a stress reliever, not a stress inducer.

•W rite with a purpose. The universe gives back the energy that you project, so it’s important to write with gratitude. However, writing is all about processing feelings, so it’s OK if your topics aren’t always positive. When those topics arise, do your best to turn the negatives into positives so that you find a lesson in every outcome. When you write with gratitude, it can change your day and help you see the positive side of life. This is especially important in these stressful times. • Don’t be hard on yourself. Journaling can help you process feelings, so don’t be hard on yourself when those feelings come up. Putting those feelings into words that you can read later can help you process your feelings and assist you in working through them.

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+ EXPERT ADVICE | Health

Common Essential Oils and How to Use Them

See what the benefits of essential oils are and how to use them properly. By Debby Mayne

ssential oils have been used for centuries to relieve pain, cut back on symptoms of sickness, freshen the air and a myriad of other things. While there is some controversy over their effectiveness on certain health conditions, there is no denying the fact that, if used properly, they can provide antiseptic benefits, make you feel better and provide a pleasant fragrance without the use of harsh chemicals.

These are the top 10 most common essential oils and details about how they are most frequently used.

Clove essential oil: Due to the antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, this oil is often used to treat tooth and gum pain, headaches and blood problems. Eucalyptus essential oil: This natural oil is often used as a decongestant, deodorant, anti-inflammatory and muscle pain reliever. Lavender essential oil: Many people find that lavender oil enables them to relax and get a good nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sleep, as it helps to reduce anxiety and pain. Lemon essential oil: A natural astringent, lemon oil helps rejuvenate the appearance of dull, lackluster skin. Lemongrass essential oil: Some people use this as an antidepressant, sedative and general tonic for providing the feeling of general wellbeing. Myrrh essential oil: Often used as an anti-inflammatory, myrrh oil also has antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

Peppermint essential oil: People use peppermint oil for a variety of things, including pain relief, allergy relief, energy and respiratory health. Rose essential oil: Rose oil is an emollient that helps moisturize the skin. It contains a blend of natural antioxidants that also help to reduce inflammation. Sandalwood essential oil: Sandalwood essential oil is used to help with mental clarity, relaxation and memory. It is also beneficial as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and expectorant. Tea tree essential oil: In addition to being an excellent cleaning and disinfectant product, tea tree essential oil helps control itching and scarring. All of these essential oils may be used alone; however, many of them can be blended with others for compounded effects. Although all of these essential oils have distinct benefits, if you experience any problems or difficulties with any of them, stop using them immediately.

+ EXPERT ADVICE | Health

Yoga for You Find your inner balance and peace with these yoga tips. By Tarre Beach

oga is often considered an intense workout with the obvious physical health benefits of flexibility, cardiovascular strengthening and balance. Yoga practice also has plenty of mental health benefits. Cortney Singleton of Orlando Power Yoga says yoga is not just about sweating and bending your body into difficult poses. It also has a meditative and relaxing side. “Yoga doesn’t have to only be a rigorous, sweaty workout,” she says. “There are many types of yoga. It can also be a gentle, moving prayer.” Orlando Power Yoga offers Yin Yoga. This slower-paced technique focuses on stretching and holding

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

poses for longer periods of time — time that can be used to meditate or mentally focus.

Mindfulness Meditation

Winter Park resident Maria Reyes-Jones has been practicing yoga for about 12 years. She enjoys the more strenuous styles and says she is often able to achieve a meditative state while doing yoga regardless of the style. "There are times when I feel extremely relaxed and peaceful while I’m doing yoga,” she says. Empower Yoga of Waterford Lakes and Inspirit Yoga of Southwest Orlando both offer chair yoga classes, which are aimed at seniors

as well as the disabled. These softer styles of yoga prove it is not just for ultra-fit Hollywood actresses or Ironman athletes. Daniel Graxton, director of Lineages Buddhist Meditation Center, points out that the yoga, a Sanskrit word, means union. In Eastern tradition, yoga usually refers to humanity’s union with the metaphysical. The action you take to achieve that unity can be so much more than bending and stretching. “You can do yoga of laughing, yoga of washing the dishes or yoga of walking your dog,” Graxton says. “The more accurate definition of yoga is to focus and be in the moment.”

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the g e t a re helpin c o t ent tion by m e ov he na y life. rs, m t jo io ts roo nity in nd en behav s s gra mmu tive, a althy a e c o e ate r te Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; thiest c l, stay a spire h s, uni advoc l l m d hea eat we ily to in rogra ns, an p . o a you ork d ealthy anizati isions c w h We pion ed org nity de d m cha th-min commu l g r hea ealthy o . h e for ang

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+ HEALTH & Wellness

How to Stay Hydrated Follow these hydration tips so the heat doesn’t get the best of you during these hot summer months. By Natasha Boschetti

entral Florida has had record high temperatures this summer, and playing in the sun can take a toll on your body. Staying hydrated is more important than ever. Your body depends on it. Water makes up 60 percent of your body. It regulates your body temperature, flushes waste, lubricates your joints and much more. Think about it, one can survive three weeks without food but only three days without water. But, how much water should you drink every day? Individual water needs depend on many factors, including your health, lifestyle and where you live. In the hot Florida sun, the more water you drink, the better. UCF Health experts suggest drinking at least 12 to 15 glasses of water a day during the hot summer months, especially if you are very active and frequently outside. If staying hydrated is difficult for you, set drinking goals and keep a reusable water bottle with you to refill throughout the day. When you’re feeling hungry at work, drink water. Thirst is often confused with hunger, and drinking water when you start work makes it easier to stay hydrated throughout the day. For those who just don’t like plain water, try infusing lemons, cucumbers, oranges or other fruits for a fresh taste. Research has shown that cucumber

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

water not only keeps you hydrated, but also delivers antioxidants and vitamins such as C and K. While drinking water is extremely important, especially during this time of year, you can also consume water from food. A person who incorporates water-rich foods, such as watermelon, tomatoes and soup broths, in their diet may not need to drink as much water as someone who has been eating grains and other dry foods. Try to stay away from salty foods like chips and other dry, packaged snacks, which can make you dehydrated. Some signs of dehydration include lack of energy, headache, heat stroke, dizziness and extreme thirst. A person may also go into shock and become unresponsive if

not treated quickly. Some people are at higher risks of dehydration, including people who exercise in high intensity, have medical conditions like kidney stones, or are of older age. As you get older, your brain many not be able to sense dehydration and send thirst signals. A quick way to know if you are dehydrated is to do a urine color test. The darker the urine, the more water intake you need. Staying hydrated is important during these hot spring days. Keep your family, friends and loved ones safe and healthy by being aware of dehydration symptoms, avoiding energy drinks and dry snacks, and grabbing a glass of cold water wherever you go.

+ HOMESTYLE

How to Organize Your Home Like

Marie Kondo Your guide to the five tidy categories outlined in the KonMari method of organization.

By Lauren Margolis

messy home causes stress, whether it’s the piles of laundry, kid’s toys scattered on the floor or cluttered cabinets. Luckily, Marie Kondo is here to save the day. The best-selling author helps families all over the world get organized, and her Netflix series “Tidying Up with Marie Kondo” is soaring in popularity. Kondo discovered her passion for organization at age 19 and later founded the KonMari method, which organizes items by category rather than by location. There are five tidy categories in a specific order: clothing, books, paper, Komono (including kitchen, bathroom, garage and miscellaneous), and sentimental items. We often store things in a way we can’t see them, making items hard to find and easy to forget. Kondo suggests storing items vertically, whether it’s in drawers or in boxes, instead of stacking things on top of each other. The goal of tidying up is to cherish what you already have instead of buying new things and bringing clutter into the home. Before organizing a home on her Netflix show, Kondo starts by greeting it and thanking it. Being thankful is a big part of the KonMari method. 44

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

Here are some helpful organization tips using this technique. 1. Clothes: Put all of your clothes in one big pile so you can see how much you really have. Next, hold each item individually and decide whether to keep or get rid of it. Kondo suggests only keeping items that spark joy for you. You will hone your sensitivity to joy as you go through the process. She believes it’s important to thank each item you let go of for being useful to you. Tip! To best utilize drawer space and to see your clothes better, fold shirts and pants by creating a rectangle in the middle and folding it in half then into thirds. Store them standing up in the drawer instead of lying flat. 2. Books: Make sure you’re keeping books that you will read. Again, they should spark joy in you when you hold them. Tip! Keep your books visible. You will read them more if they’re in a spot where you can see them. 3. Paper: Put all papers into a pile and organize them into three cat-

egories: papers that need attention (bills), papers you need to keep short-term (warranties) and papers you need to keep forever (birth certificates). Then get rid of what you don’t need. Tip! Subdivide your papers according to frequency. Put the infrequently used papers into a single ordinary clear plastic folder to keep them organized. 4. Miscellaneous: When organizing miscellaneous items, Kondo uses small boxes to compartmentalize for neater drawers. Tip! Keep items of the same size together and utilize tiny boxes to separate and store items. 5. Sentimental: Kondo recommends putting all sentimental items to the side and saving them for last, when your joy and sensitivity is heightened. Tip! When organizing your photos, categorize them by year and event so you can find them easier. Lastly, don’t buy storage containers before you tidy up and determine what you’re storing.

Shepherd’s Hope relies on strong partnerships within the local community to ensure its services reach those most in need.

Shepherd’s Hope: Caring People, Caring For People It Started With a Walk on the Beach.

In the summer of 1996, Dr. William S. Barnes, pastor of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Windermere, had a calling. That calling led him to create Shepherd’s Hope, a facility operated primarily by volunteers, that provides uninsured individuals and families access to healthcare. Patients who are eligible for services through Shepherd’s Hope have income at or below 200% of the poverty level, are uninsured and are not eligible for governmentassisted health care programs. Today, Shepherd’s Hope operates five medical health centers in Orange and Seminole counties.

“None of us knows how to do all of it, but all of us know how to do some of it.” - Dr. William S. Barnes, Founder of Shepherd’s Hope

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

Through the Support of a Caring Community.

Shepherd’s Hope relies on strong partnerships within the local community to ensure its services reach those most in need. Each Health Center is the result of a partnership between a faith community, school or facility partner, specialty providers and hospitals. Volunteer physicians, nurses, other licensed health care professionals and general volunteers provide quality healthcare to men, women and children who would otherwise go without the care they need.

Expanding Its Reach with New Initiatives.

In celebration of its 23rd anniversary this in February, Shepherd’s Hope launched three new initiatives that expanded access to healthcare services in our community. The new Shepherd’s Hope Health Center in Winter Garden now features an on-site radiology suite with a full range of services, including a diagnostic lab and x-ray services, for uninsured patients. Additionally, a $600,000 grant from the West Orange Health

Alliance will support the assimilation of the acute care dental services of the West Orange Dental Alliance into Shepherd’s Hope operations. The funds from WOHA will help to establish this new line of services and support access to care. Finally, to promote positive lifestyle changes for residents, a program called HEAL - Healthy Eating Active Lifestyle was launched in the community. It provides residents with access to food as a prescription; heart, diabetes and obesity interventions; and educational cooking, nutrition and lifestyle classes and programs.

Join Shepherd’s Hope in their Mission.

Whether you’re a medical professional interested in donating your services, a community member wishing to volunteer at a facility or an event, or a resident who would like to support this amazing mission with a monetary gift, Shepherd’s Hope needs your help. New volunteers are always welcome, specifically prescribers and specialists that receive Sovereign immunity, as well as general volunteers. In-kind donation

needs include everything from tri-fold paper towels, non-latex gloves and wrist splints to water and snacks for patients who wait hours in line before the doors even open. Monetary support of patient care ($100 per patient) is also a huge need. For more information about opportunities to get involved and a full in-kind wish list, visit the Shepherd’s Hope website.

407.876.6699

www.ShepherdsHope.org 455 9th Street Winter Garden, FL 34787

Shepherd’s Hope by the Numbers

290,000

free medical visits and patient services since first opening in 1997

medical health centers in Orange and Seminole counties

Special Thank You to Shepherd’s Hope Volunteers!

The following volunteers have received the Dr. Ruth McKeefery Award for Outstanding Service at Call to Hope Breakfast. On May 8, a new group of volunteers, as well as Shepherd’s Hope’s valued partners, will be recognized at the free breakfast.

2017

2018

2019

PHYSICIAN

Ronald Knipe, MD/DT

Dr. Thill/OC

John O’Brien, MD/DT

CLINICALPRACTITIONER

Patricia Weinstein, ARNP/LO

Jaime Lynch, APRN/DI/OC

JoAnne Weiss, APRN/OC

NURSE

Bonnie Kellogg, RN/OC

Donna Breit, RN/DT

Diana McKee, RN/LO

GENERAL

Muhammed Hasan/DT

Faryal Mohammad/TZ

Jeff Small/DI

$21 MILLION

in healthcare services delivered in 2019 through community partnerships

3032 CARING VOLUNTEERS; 41,875 SERVICE HOURS at one (or more) of Shepherd’s Hope’s five area facilities in 2019

You’re Invited! Famous Faces Masquerade Ball: Starships to Broomsticks Celebrate Shepherd’s Hope at this black-tie Halloween soiree, complete with gourmet dinner, live entertainment and silent auction. When: October 24, 2020 Time: 6:00-11:00 p.m.

For information: 407-876-6699 ext. 266

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

+ HOMESTYLE

How to Set Up a

Saltwater Aquarium A saltwater aquarium hobbyist’s guide to the proper set up and maintenance of a healthy tank. By Lou Schiavo, World Wide Corals

t starts out as a simple tank of water that will eventually hold aquatic life. Extra care and patience in the beginning will go a long way toward creating a healthy, problem-free aquarium for years to come.

Choose a Location

Aquariums should be placed away from windows, outside doors, heat vents and air conditioners, as rapid changes in water temperatures are extremely stressful for fish and live corals. The area you choose should be able to support the weight of the aquarium and be in close proximity to electrical outlets. Most saltwater tanks require access to at least four plugs.

Set up the Tank

Rinse dust or debris from inside the tank before setting the stand into place, making sure it’s level. An unbalanced aquarium can Lou Schiavo is co-founder/co-owner of the internationally renowned company World Wide Corals, which was established in 2006. He oversees the company’s daily operations, including aquarium service, trade shows, retail store and the WorldWidecorals.com. Currently, he’s heavily involved with the development of two new WWC retail locations here in Central Florida.

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

be extremely hazardous and increases the risk for cracking or leaking. Once your stand is in place, fill the tank approximately one-third full of water. Carefully dry the bottom edge of the tank and stand then check for leaks. Look for water beading up on the bottom edge or running down the sides of the stand. If it’s leaking, empty it. You can attempt to fix it, but repairing a leaky tank is difficult, with no guarantee of success. Set up your filter and protein skimmer according to the manufacturer’s directions. Don’t plug them in at this time.

Add Sand and Live Rock

Always rinse live sand in premixed saltwater before placing it into the aquarium. Live rock is made from the aragonite skeletons of long-dead corals or other calcareous organisms. When taken from the ocean, it can be encrusted with coralline algae. The many forms of micro and macroscopic marine life that live on and inside of the rock, which acts as an ideal habitat, give it the name “live rock”.

Finishing Touches

Fill the tank the rest of the way, pouring the water directly into a small bowl first to protect the aqua-scaping. If mixing your own saltwater add the appropriate amount of water conditioner or additive, then the marine salt in small

amounts until you get a specific gravity reading of around 1.020 with a hydrometer. Your goal is a level of 1.020 to 1.025 for fish–only aquariums and 1.023 to 1.025 for fish and live coral reef tanks. It may take up to 24 hours for the specific gravity level to stabilize. Then place the heater into the tank or filtration area, but don’t plug it in. Clip-on, non-submersible heaters should be placed close to the outflow of the filter. Submersible heaters should be placed close to the inflow of the filter. These placements allow the heated water to be better dispersed throughout the tank. Wait 20 minutes then plug in your heater and protein skimmer and adjust to your target temperature. Your saltwater system is now set up and running, but don’t rush off to buy livestock just yet. Once your water temperature and specific gravity levels have remained stable for 24-48 hours, a cycling process is necessary. This can take anywhere from four to six weeks. Once complete, your tank will be ready for fish.

Visit CentralFloridaLifestyle.com for more tips from World Wide Corals.

+ EXPERT ADVICE | Law

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

What to Do if You’re in a Car Accident During the COVID-19 Era While a stay-at-home order is being enforced during this healthcare crisis, essential travel is allowed. Read on to learn what to do should you get into a car accident during this time. By Michael Brehne, Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A

uring these uncertain times, when information and regulations change almost daily, we have to adjust our lives and behavior. Our state and local governments have not completely prohibited anyone from driving. Most people can drive to and from grocery stores, take-out restaurants and “essential businesses.” However, it’s still possible for you to be involved in a car crash even with less cars on the road.

Do I have to see a doctor if I’m in an accident?

If you’re injured in a car accident, your automobile insurance company will be responsible for paying 80% of the first $10,000 of your medical care, regardless of fault. In order for you to qualify under the personal injury protection (PIP) portion of your insurance policy, you must seek “initial services and care that are lawfully provided, supervised, ordered, or prescribed by” a physician, dentist, chiropractor, hospital or EMS within 14 days after the motor vehicle accident. The penalty for not seeking initial services and care within the 14-day period is that your insurance company will not be liable for any bills submitted after that time. This means you have forfeited your $10,000 in medical benefits even though you have paid premiums month after month for this coverage. And, no, you won’t receive a refund of your precious premiums if they deny payment of your medical bills after the 14 days. What is considered initial services and care are not defined in the statute and are therefore subject

to debate. In our practice, we have made very successful arguments that even a cursory field examination by EMS personnel would satisfy the 14-day rule even if the patient refused to be treated or transported.

Are doctor’s offices open?

Most of them are because they’re considered “essential businesses.” The definition of essential business seems to be in flux amongst the jurisdictions but, as of this writing, most agree that working in the justice field (law) and medical field are essential. This means that law firms like ours may continue to represent people faced with legal problems and physicians may continue most patient care. However, it’s not business as usual. Most offices have implemented strict protocols to decrease the possibility of exposure to COVID-19. Some are practicing telemedicine, where a patient can video chat or merely speak on the telephone to a care provider for an initial consultation. Considering that the physician will be making decisions regarding your health, I would argue that this qualifies as initial services and care to satisfy the 14-day rule. If the virtual conference isn’t satisfactory to the physician, most are allowing patients to visit their offices following strict infectious disease control protocols. My office stands ready to offer guidance to anyone injured in a crash and are prepared to maintain the highest level of legal services to our community during this time.

Mr. Brehne has dedicated his 20-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.”

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

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+ SPORTS & Recreation

8 Ways

How to safely get outside and stay active and entertained during this time of social distancing.

to Get Fresh Air While Social Distancing By Kelly Gilmore

e might be practicing social distancing, but that doesn’t mean you can’t go outside and get some fresh air. Many activities can be enjoyed from the comfort of your backyard or around your neighborhood. Not only are they fun, but they’re also safe. Here are some of our favorite ideas for individuals and families who want to enjoy the outdoors while still keeping distance from crowds or groups.

Get Some Exercise

Go for a walk or jog around your neighborhood, take in nature and get a change of scenery. Also, biking and rollerblading provide entertainment for people of all ages as well as exercise. While you’re out, be sure to keep your distance, staying at least six feet away from others and not making these group activities.

Plant a Garden

Ever dreamed of growing your own vegetable garden or planting some perfect flowers? Now is the perfect time! This backyard activity is both productive

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

and calming. Get the kids involved and teach them how their work can go from garden to table.

Items on the list can include a pinecone, wildflowers or even spotting a butterfly.

Get Creative with Chalk

Have a Family Picnic

Have tablets and screens have taken over your household? Get the kids outside with a fun activity that brings out their creativity — all you need is some sidewalk chalk. Introduce them to classic games like hopscotch or draw an obstacle course for them to complete. Also encourage them to draw pretty pictures and message for the neighbors.

Make a Splash

With spring in full bloom and summer right around the corner, it’s time to make a splash. Relax poolside with a new book or lounge on your favorite float. If you don’t have a pool in your backyard, stay cool by having a family water balloon fight.

Host a Nature Scavenger Hunt

Simply make a list of items in nature you may come across during a walk around your neighborhood and take your scavengers on a stroll.

Mix up a meal, whether it’s a simple sandwich, chips and fruit or a hot meal, then eat together on a blanket in your backyard. You can plan for a sunny lunchtime gathering or a relaxing dinner under the stars.

Craft Outside

Painting outside is a relaxing way to unwind and let out your creative side while avoiding an indoor mess. Set up a canvas for each family member and encourage them to create their own masterpiece using inspiration right in your own backyard.

Create a Workout Circuit

Break out the weights, jump ropes, hoola-hoops and any other equipment you have, and get creative with your workouts. Place the items around the yard and rotate from one station to the next, staying fit, active and entertained.

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DIY How to Make

Paper Flowers By Lyndsay Fogarty and Catie Moore

These easy paper flowers make a pretty backdrop for your wedding ceremony, your sweetheart table or a photo booth at your reception. They can even be used to decorate your home or office space after your big day.

What You Need • Colored card stock • Scissors • Hot glue gun • Extra glue sticks

Approximate assembly time: 10 minutes per flower

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

Step 1 – Cut Petals

Create four small, four medium and five large petals by cutting cardstock in the shape of your choice. A 12-inch petal allows for a finished paper flower that is approximately 15 to 18 inches in width. The bottom of each petal should have a flat edge, and each one should have a 1-inch cut in the center of the flat end. Cut leaves as large as your largest petal to ensure they will be seen when the flower is complete.

Step 2 – Assemble Petals

Step 3 – Form the Flower

Step 4 – Add Details

Step 5 – Finish the Flower

To add depth and dimension use the flat, cut end of the petals to overlap right over left, keeping in place with hot glue. Repeat this step for each of the small, medium and large petals. For additional texture, roll up the top of the petals. They can also be left uncurled, based on your preference.

Create a fringe-like center by using a strip of paper that is one or two inches wide and approximately 10 inches in length. Make tiny cuts in the paper, less than a quarter of an inch between each one. The cuts should be roughly half of the width of the short side of the strip. Once complete, roll it up and secure it with hot glue.

Starting with the large petals, glue the bases of each one together to form a ring. Repeat with the medium petals then the small petals. Once complete, nest the small ring of petals into the medium ring of petals, gluing in place. Glue the medium ring of petals in place within the ring of large petals.

Complete the flower by using a generous amount of hot glue on the base of the fringed center and place it in the center of the small ring of petals. Hot glue the leaf or leaves in place behind the base of the large ring of petals. www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

+ IN THE Kitchen

Let Your Indoor

Garden Grow Your guide to re-growing vegetable scraps into vibrant, ready-to-eat new vegetables using only water. By Kelly Gilmore

nstead of throwing away your veggie scraps, use them to grow more right in your kitchen. Making the most of your produce is both eco-friendly and budgetfriendly, and it will save you a trip to the grocery store. This at-home repurposing is simple and doesn’t even require a garden — only water. Even better, you can re-grow multiple times using the same scraps. Here’s how to do it.

Leafy Greens

Veggies like lettuce, cabbage and celery vary in taste, but grow much the same way. Save the bottom one to two inches and place in a shallow bowl of water. Growth can start in as soon as three days and will lead to fresh, home-grown vegetables in no time. Use them for a variety of salads or make a dish like lettuce wraps, where the cabbage and celery can be used for toppings.

Leeks and Green Onion

The flavors of these vegetables are interchangeable but they are grown just the same. With leeks, simply cut two to three inches off the bottom and place it in a container of water. Similarly, take the bottom white portion of the green onion (with any roots still intact) and place it in a glass of water. Within a couple days, roots will begin to grow, leading to a new vegetable. Make a creamy pasta dish with leeks, peas and bacon with your finished product.

Lemongrass

When life gives you lemongrass, re-grow it! Cut a two- to three-inch piece of lemongrass and place it in a tall, skinny glass halfway full with water. It will sprout within a couple of days. Once it’s fully grown, lemongrass is a tasty addition to a variety of soups. Consider including it in a ginger-carrot soup that can be served hot in the winter and cold in the summer.

The same technique can be used with fennel, celery and carrot greens. Additionally, herbs such as mint, rosemary, thyme, parsley and sage can get started in water but need to be moved to potting soil when roots begin to grow. The same goes for avocados, beets, mushrooms, potatoes and other produce items. Whether you keep this project in bowls inside the kitchen or you move it to a backyard garden, re-growing is free, easy, good for the environment and good for you.

Know Before You Grow! 1. Before you get started, choose the right container for your vegetable of choice. Slim veggies like green onions thrive in tall water glasses and a plump vegetable like cabbage grows best in a wide, shallow bowl. 2. A ton of water isn’t necessary. Only fill your container up halfway to prevent the produce from falling into the water as it grows and becoming moldy. 3. C heck in every few days. These vegetables do the work on their own, but you will need to manage their growth and ensure they’re still intact. During your checks, pull off any discolored pieces and add more water if you need it.

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

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+ IN THE Kitchen

The Perfect

Picnic

Pack up the kids and their favorite lunch time treats. It’s time to plan a picnic. By Leah Kircher and Lyndsay Fogarty

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

ers that are easily stackable. Start by packing re-freezable ice packs or frozen bottles of water at the bottom of the basket. Then start layering your containers with the food you will be eating first at the top for easy access (desserts at the bottom) as well as to ensure the items you will be eating later remain cool. Lightweight, stackable dishes are easy to pack at the top of the picnic basket. Also, place utensils and napkins inside your cups before packing them into an empty corner of the basket to save space. Don’t forget hand wipes or paper towels to wash off the mess that those finger foods may leave behind. You also want to leave your outdoors picnic area just as beautiful and clean as it was when you got there, so don’t forget to bring cleanup gear. A simple trash bag to get rid of your garbage will work just fine. And who could forget the blanket? It is, after all, an essential item to the art of picnicking. A lightweight blanket that is easy to fold and carry is ideal, but make sure it’s big enough to fit all your picnic goers and your basket. A brightly colored blanket is an added bonus that not only adds some personal style and fun to your picnic, but it makes it easy for people to find you

Courtesy of Bee in Our Bonnet The classic BLT sandwich gets a picnic-induced twist when they are miniaturized, making them a simple option for your next picnic.

Ingredients:

• One pack of thick cut bacon • Two tomatoes • Mayonnaise • One bag of green leaf lettuce • One French baguette loaf • Toothpick

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Slice the loaf of bread and then cut each slice in half. Place the bread in the oven for about five minutes, which is just long enough to lightly toast them. Fry the bacon on the stove and then cut it into about four pieces per strip. Tear the lettuce leaves into smaller pieces, about the same size as your bread pieces, if needed. Spread mayonnaise on each piece of bread. Stack your BLT in this order: bread, bacon, lettuce and tomato. Put a toothpick through the stack, and either place in cooler or on ice immediately. COURTESY OF BEE IN OUR BONNET

icnics are one of this season’s simplest, yet greatest pleasures — especially here in sunny Central Florida. During these times of social distancing, pack up a meal and have a picnic in your own backyard for some carefree time your with loved ones. So you’ve decided you’re going on a picnic. First things first, it’s time to plan your menu. Choose casual food items that can be made beforehand. A good idea is to think of foods that you can eat without utensils such as a hearty sandwich or wrap, hummus with veggies or pita bread, and fresh fruit. Get the kids involved with picnic prep by asking them to pack the veggies and fruit or letting them pick what you will serve for dessert. Pasta salads are another tasty menu option — just don’t forget the utensils if you go this route. It’s best to prepare pasta salads, or any type of salad for that matter, with a vinaigrette or other oil-based dressing instead of a mayonnaise or cream base to avoid food safety issues with the Florida heat. Once you have your menu set, it’s time to pack. Knowing how to pack your picnic basket can make a real difference. Make sure to place your food items in lightweight, plastic contain-

BLT Bites

if you’re in a crowded, popular picnic spot. Next time you feel like eating outside, pack a picnic with the family and enjoy one of this season’s greatest pleasures.

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+ WINE & Spirits

Ways to Infuse New Flavor Into Liquor Mix up your next cocktail using alcohol that you have infused yourself.

By Lyndsay Fogarty

ake your cocktails anything but boring by infusing new flavors into the liquor you have on hand. Here are some of our favorite ideas.

Jalapeno Tequila

You will need one jalapeno for every cup of tequila. Slice it thinly, removing the seeds for a lower spice level or leaving them in for an extra kick. Combine the jalapenos and tequila in a container, seal it tightly and let it sit at room temperature for up to 24 hours. It’s the perfect accompaniment for your next Taco Tuesday, whether you mix it into a margarita or use it in a marinade for a tequila lime chicken filling. On second thought, why not do both?

Pineapple Vodka

Make The Capital Grille’s Stoli Doli cocktail from the comfort of home with this infused vodka. Soak

large chunks of pineapple in a container of vodka for a full 24 hours at room temperature. When it’s done, you will have a smooth, sweet vodka to shake up a cocktail with as well as boozy pineapple chunks to snack on, so don’t throw them away.

Coconut Rum

Sure, you can buy your own coconut rum at the store, but it’s more fun to make it. This infusion can be done by cracking open a fresh coconut and scooping out the flesh, although dehydrated unsweetened coconut chunks can be substituted. This one needs two to three weeks to reach full flavor. Toward the end, consider adding flavors such as vanilla, ginger or other spices to make it your own. No matter what you choose to make, enjoy it with a loved one or during a virtual happy hour. Cheers!

READE RECIP R E!

Bloody Mary with Veggie-Infused Vodka By Kelly Smylie, East Orlando An infused vodka adds another layer of flavor to the usual Bloody Mary. Don’t wait until the weekend to pour of one of these cocktails.

FOR THE VODKA

INGREDIENTS: • 1 part carrots, peeled and cut • 1 part celery • 1 part yellow onion • 1 part red bell peppers • 2 -5 cloves of garlic, peeled (optional) • Vodka of choice DIRECTIONS: The size of your container will determine the amount of vegetables needed. Fill container with vegetables (equal parts, about a quarter of the container for each one). Add vodka and cover. Store in refrigerator for 24-48 hours. Leave vegetables in container of vodka as you serve so the flavor doesn’t weaken.

FOR THE BLOODY MARY

INGREDIENTS: • 2 ounces vegetable vodka •4 ounces tomato juice •W orcestershire sauce to taste •H ot sauce or sriracha sauce to taste •P inch celery salt •P inch horseradish •P inch black pepper •O ptional garnishes: bleu cheese stuffed olives, bacon, steamed shrimp, celery, marinated artichoke hearts DIRECTIONS: Stir together ingredients 1 through 7. Rub lemon on rim of glass and dip into salt or flavored salt. Fill with ice and pour mixture into glass. Garnish with toppings of your choice and enjoy for brunch! 60

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

How to Stay Busy (and Not Bored)

While Social Distancing

Many resources are available to us while we’re staying at home, for entertainment and educational purposes. Read on to see what’s out there.

By Kelly Gilmore

s we practice social distancing, it may feel like our options for passing the time are limited. However, due to the initiatives of many amazing individuals, organizations and online programs, digital entertainment opportunities are popping up everywhere. Below are some of our favorite ideas for staying busy throughout the next several weeks. From entertainment, education, organization and home improvement, it’s all coming to you digitally.

DIGITAL TRAVEL Explore National Parks From Your Couch Google Earth invites you to get outdoors even while stuck indoors with virtual tours of 33 national parks! 62

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

Take a walk around Redwood National Park or Yellowstone National Park without ever leaving the house. View Metropolitan Opera Performances Online For some world-class entertainment right at home, visit the Metropolitan Opera’s website to enjoy free streamed encore performances from many of its most famed shows. Each night, the Opera will be offering a different piece from their performances over the past 14 years, providing at-home audiences with a new show each night. Museum Hop Around the World Ever dreamed of touring famous museums from London to Berlin? Well now you can visit hundreds of world-renowned museums at your fingertips virtually! Google Arts and

Culture has partnered with hundreds of global galleries and prepared virtual tours for all to enjoy. Notable stops on this world-wide tour include the Guggenheim Museum in New York, British Museum in London and Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam.

FOR THE FAMILY Work Out While You Wait It Out Pass the time with a healthy activity by doing at-home work-ins with Planet Fitness trainers. Online workout videos offer new virtual routines every day. To join a live class in the United We Move campaign, tune in to the Planet Fitness Facebook daily at 7 p.m. EST. These 20-minute home work-ins are a great way to pass the time, stay active and even relieve some stress.

How to Access the Local Library at Home Looking to have a dance party, read a thrilling novel or relax with a new magazine? Orange County Library Systems has many resources available online. Reading resources such as Overdrive, hoopla and cloudLibrary offer e-books, digital magazines, audio books and music for your enjoyment. These resources can pass the time while also providing your family with educational entertainment. Calm Your Mind During stressful times, it’s more important than ever to take some time for yourself and just breathe. So Jay Shetty, a former monk, award-winning podcast host and author of “Think Like a Monk,” will be live streaming meditation sessions for 20 days starting

on March 20. Take 20 minutes a day to relax your mind, body and soul with others from around the country — all from the comfort of home. Organize Your Home While spring cleaning has only just begun, using these next few weeks to organize, de-clutter and deep clean will distract, disinfect and make for a better home space. Take this time to organize the pantry, clean your appliances and sort through unnecessary clutter. Ask your kids to do the same in their bedrooms and play areas. As a family, you can donate items to local nonprofit organizations when it’s safe to go back out. Get inspired by Marie Kondo’s organizational series on Netflix, or check out our recap article with organizational tips, before you get started.

New Movies without Moving Although Netflix and Hulu offer endless options for streaming entertainment, Universal Pictures will be releasing its movies to home audiences on the same day it’s to be released in theaters. If your kids have been waiting to see Trolls World Tour on opening day, fret no longer. This new movie, and many others, are coming to you as soon as Friday, March 20. They will be available for 48-hour rental via Comcast, Sky and other on-demand partners. Art Class on Your Couch Now is not the time to panic but perhaps to paint! Thanks to the Boca Raton Museum of Art, a new program is being created for all ages from kids to seniors during a time of social distancing! Keep Kids Smart with Art offers a visual arts program that is free for all ages offering artistic programs for those to enjoy and create at home! To access this wonderful online program stay up to date by checking out Boca Raton Museum of Art’s Instagram page! Virtual Netflix Watch Parties Just because your social distancing doesn’t mean you can’t be social while binging your favorite shows! Netflix Party, a new Google Chrome Extension, allows groups of friends to get together virtually and watch their favorite shows at the same time! In order to access this, all you need is a Google Chrome browser, the extension and your Netflix account!

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FOR THE KIDS Educational Resources For Home Schooling Educating at home is an adjustment for both kids and parents. Sites like Saving Dollar and Sense offer free online resources that entertain and educate, such as math tutorials and virtual field trips. Examples include EveryDay Earth, where students can explore landscapes and geology online, and BrainPop, which demonstrates all curriculum topics for free during school closures. Storytelling Online with Actor Josh Gad Actor Josh Gad has captured the hearts of children worldwide in his role of Olaf in the Frozen series. He is now taking the initiative to capture their hearts and keep them entertained while the nation is practicing social distanc-

ing by reading children’s books each night on his Twitter page. His most recent reads include The Day the Crayons Quit and The Giving Tree. Get to Know Aquarium and Zoo Animals Kids love anything animal related. Who doesn’t, really? Thanks to aquariums and zoos around the country, no one has to wait to get their fill of adorable animals. You can check out the Georgia Aquarium’s website to view live webcam footage of all the exhibits or tune in to the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s Home Safari Facebook Live every weekday at 3 p.m. to meet one of their animals and participate in an educational activity. Locally, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Garden is inviting viewers to meet their own featured animals and complete kids’ activities every weekday at 2 p.m.

Explore Space While Keeping Safe The education team at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will share daily Facebook Live video experiences as well as shorter segments that will each pair with an at-home activity. Covering topics such as living in space and on Mars, tours of Space Shuttle Atlantis and the Astronaut Training Experience, rocketry 101, and more. Hands on activities will involve everyday items that can be found around the house, such as using straws, paper towel tubes, and rubber bands to build and launch a rocket. Presentations will take place Monday through Friday at 9:30 a.m. EST for younger children, and 1 p.m. for young adults on Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s Facebook. Walt Disney’s Imagineering in a Box Walt Disney has paired with Khan Academy to offer a free online program that brings together the diverse talents of Disney Imagineers around the world for a oneof-a-kind learning experience! This online curriculum series, available on Khan Academy’s Website, offers 32 videos that demonstrate how imagineers use a variety of skills to create from conceptual design to physics! Modules range from a tutorial on engineering software, to an interactive exercise where learners are encouraged to gather items around them and create something new! Brighten Someone’s Day With so many restrictions in place to protect the public, nursing homes have been closed to visitors. Make some time in your child’s day to sit down and write a note or draw a picture then mail it to a local nursing home. It’s sure to put a smile on someone’s face.

Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

+ SNAPSHOTS On the Town

Grand Opening of Saccaro in Winter Park On Feb. 27, Saccaro USA celebrated the grand opening of its third showroom in Winter Park.

1. Owners Patricia Soares, Carlos Forato and the corporate team of Saccaro USA. 2. P artners from Center for Independent Living of Central Florida, a beneficiary of the event. 3-4. G uests had a great time exploring the store and all that it has to offer.

2020 Central Florida Pop-Up Camp

5-6. Central Florida Lifestyle was a proud sponsor of the first annual 2020 Central Florida Regional Pop-Up Camp, which was hosted by Burn Boot Camp and benefitted the University of Central Florida PedsAcademy at Nemours Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital.

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Central Florida Lifestyle | April 2020

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