Southwest December 2015 by Central Florida Lifestyle

C E N T R A L F L O R I DAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; S P R E M I E R C O M M U N I T Y M AG A Z I N E

LIFESTYLE TM

A DIVISION OF VS MEDIA GROUP

DECEMBER 2015

BUY LOCAL

Gift Guide for Neighborhood Businesses

Central Florida

Pain Relief Centers Setting the Standard

for Pain Management

Photo Courtesy of Joe Brooks Photography

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ON A MISSION

Locals Minister Around the World

THE GIFT OF TIME

Ideas for Volunteering During the Holidays SW www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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ERIENC XP

THE

WOWof

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>WHAT’S+INSIDE

Contents December 2015 Features 12

Season of Giving

Actively giving back during the holiday season is the gift that keeps on giving for many Central Florida families.

Buy Local Gift Guide

Skip the crowded malls and outlets this holiday season and support local businesses by piling presents that you bought locally under the tree.

Mission: Possible

These missionaries have left the comfort of their homes here to disciple to others during a time usually allocated for family togetherness — Christmas time.

Web Life

o online and check out our G web content for stories and photos not seen in print.

• Snapshots from other communities • More stories about local missionaries • An expanded web calendar

facebook.com/ centralfloridalifestyle twitter.com/cflifestylemag

Say Goodbye to Pain The caring physicians at Central Florida Pain Relief Centers set the standard for quality pain management.

Central Florida Lifestyle | December 2015

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WHAT’S+INSIDE<

Most everything you’ll find on Itta Bena’s menu is elevated with flavor profiles straight from the Mississippi Delta, a region that isn’t so widely known on the foodie map but that packs a culinary punch.

Orlando residents seeking a weekend escape with fine meals, fine art and a pleasant way to burn off calories, might choose the Epicurean, an unusual choice that is only 90 minutes away.

Departments 6 16

Editorial Notes Places to Go

The Tampa Trinity: Food, Fitness and Culture

Festive Fashions

22 24

Fight Chronic Migraines Protect Your Hearing

Expert Advice

In Style Your Health

Why Drive to Your Holiday Destination?

Hospitality Spotlight

Magic

34 Homestyle Dinner is Served

“What I admire about her: In the face of these threats, she never abandoned her values or faith.”

Bon Appétit

Come as You Are

Local Life

What’s Going On in Your Neighborhood

Chamber News

WOCC Welcomes New Board

School News

Reports from the District

“I want her to think — even though she has Type 1 or celiac — whatever she wants to do to keep herself at her best, we will support her 100 percent.”

46 48

Your Local Malala’s Song Pageant Inspiration

What’s Happening

Calendar of Events

On The Town

Snapshots from Your Community

How You Can Help

Hope at Christmas

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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>EDITORIAL+NOTES

BOBBY PIERRE PHOTOGRAPHY

Season of Giving This is the time of year for giving — giving gifts to loved ones over the holidays but also giving back to those less fortunate in the community. Here at Lifestyle, our focus is on nonprofit organizations and the people who bring their missions to life through the donation of time, money or materials. No matter how big or small the effort, we love to see people doing good for their neighbors. We also understand that many of our readers lead busy lives, balancing work responsibilities with family schedules while still working in time for a social life and “me time.” That’s why we’re featuring several nonprofit organizations that could use your help this season. No need to do the research. In the story on

page 24, you’ll find all of the information you need in one handy place. Same goes for the gift guide on page 12. We make it easy for you to give fun gifts to your loved ones while supporting the small businesses in your community. This month, we’re also sharing stories of local missionaries who have left the comfort of their homes during the holidays to minister to people who are struggling overseas. With so much hate filling that part of the world — as seen in last month’s attacks on the city of Paris — the feel-good story on page 40 shows what can happen when people go out of their way to spread love and compassion. Whether you decide to volunteer with loved ones, adopt a family to give

them the Christmas of their dreams, or donate to your charity of choice, we want to know what you’re doing to make your community a better place. So share with us on our Facebook page (Facebook.com/centralfloridalifestyle) or Twitter (Twitter.com/cflifestylemag) or email me at editor@vsmediagroup.com. Together we can make a difference during this season of giving.

Lyndsay Fogarty Managing Editor

>WHAT+WE’RE+WORKING+ON Standing up to Bullies Have you ever stood up to a bully or watched your kids have the confidence to do the same? Share your story with us and you may be featured in a future issue. Email editor@vsmediagroup.com

Step Families We’re looking for the next Brady Bunch family. If you and your spouse successfully combined your two families into one, we want to share your story. Email editor@vsmediagroup.com

Central Florida Lifestyle | December 2015

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OUR BUFFET IS DEFINITELY ON THE NICE LIST. From traditional favorites and fresh seafood to delectable desserts, celebrate the season with a feast to remember. To see all the holiday festivities and complete menu or to make reservations (recommended), visit RosenCentre.com/Holidays or call 407.996.8551.

FRIDAY, DEC. 25TH 11AM - 5PM

$43.95* $16.95* per adult

per child (4-12)

CHILDREN 3 AND UNDER EAT FREE.

FEATURING UNLIMITED MIMOSAS AND CHAMPAGNE COMPLIMENTARY VALET PARKING *Plus service charge and sales tax. Not valid with any other offers or discounts.

9840 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com 7

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Celebrating 27 Years!

International Drive Resort Area Chamber of Commerce Lead. Unite. Represent. Enhance. Educate.

SOUTHWEST ZONE:

W I N D E R M E R E, D R . P H I L L I P S , M E T R O W E S T, W I N T E R G A R D E N , H U N T E R ’ S C R E E K , C E L E B R AT I O N

We Invite You to Join!

MANAGING EDITOR Lyndsay Fogarty lfogarty@vsmediagroup.com

Join the International Drive Resort Area Chamber of Commerce today and become a part of one of the most active, influential organizations in Central Florida. Visit our website at www.internationaldrivechamber.com, call 407-903-0084, or email idracc@earthlink.net

SENIOR DESIGNER Matt Richardson mrichardson@vsmediagroup.com

Maria Triscari, President/CEO International Drive Resort Area Chamber of Commerce

DIRECTOR OF SALES Bonnie Dulgar bdulgar@vsmediagroup.com

I-Drive Chamber 2015 Annual Meeting Luncheon

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Gena Julian gjulian@vsmediagroup.com

David Vallillo, GM at the Embassy Suites – Jamaican Court and 2015 I-Drive Chamber of Commerce Chairman of the Board addresses approx. 300 tourism industry leaders who attended the I-Drive Chamber Annual Meeting Luncheon held Nov. 11 at Rosen Shingle Creek Resort.

MULTIMEDIA CONSULTANTS Jordanna Bower jbower@vsmediagroup.com Andrew Sutton asutton@vsmediagroup.com CLIENT SERVICES COORDINATORS Brittany Morrisey bmorrisey@vsmediagroup.com Kimbria Young kyoung@vsmediagroup.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jocelyn Baker, Jenny Fauser, Rona Gindin, Dr. Diana Hussain, Kimberly Kimmel, Brittany Ann Morrisey, Dr. Nyarai Mushonga, Catherine Pope, Doreen Overstreet, Dr. Thomas Trevisani

I-Drive Visionar at Annual M y Plan Dis eetin g Lun cussed Greg Warm oth w cheon ith W iewed Orange F interv

about the I-D County P TV Chan nel 9 lann rive I-Drive Chamber 2015 Visionary er Albert o Annu al MePlan at th Vargas e eting Lunch eon.

PRODUCTION DESIGNER – FREELANCE Cheryl Davis INTERNS Sybil Allen - Art Jocelyn Baker - Editorial Ashley Daniello - Marketing VS MEDIA GROUP PRESIDENT Bill Heneghan bill.heneghan@vsmediagroup.com PUBLISHER Marisabel Wolfinger mwolfinger@vsmediagroup.com VICE PRESIDENT/BUSINESS OPERATIONS Mary Perry mperry@vsmediagroup.com CONTACT US FOR ADVERTISING INFO 407.649.3040, ext. 113 www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

Central Florida Lifestyle Publications is comprised of two separate editions, each mailed monthly, directly to homes and businesses throughout Central Florida. Average Circulation per edition 30,000. Central Florida Lifestyle Publications is published monthly by VS Media Group, 7616 Southland Boulevard, Suite 104, Orlando, FL 32809. Copyright 2015. All rights reserved. WINDERMERE LIFESTYLE, DR. PHILLIPS LIFESTYLE, METROWEST LIFESTYLE, WINTER GARDEN LIFESTYLE, HUNTER’S CREEK LIFESTYLE, CELEBRATION LIFESTYLE, DOWNTOWN LIFESTYLE, WINTER PARK LIFESTYLE, LAKE NONA LIFESTYLE, AVALON PARK LIFESTYLE, WATERFORD LAKES LIFESTYLE, OVIEDO LIFESTYLE and WINTER SPRINGS LIFESTYLE are federally registered trademarks. Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents of this magazine or of the trademarks of VS Media Group without written permission of the Publisher is prohibited. Lifestyle Publications makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of content published. Neither the publishers nor advertisers will be held responsible for any errors found herein, and the publishers accept no liability for the accuracy of statements made by advertisers in ads and/or in paid promotional features.

Learn about the vast components and aspects of the tourism industry while networking with fellow participants in this exciting and educational 10-month program! To learn more visit our web site at www.internationaldrivechamber.com

Florida Magazine Association

Central Florida Lifestyle

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twitter.com/cflifestylemag

December 2015

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

JOE BROOKS PHOTOGRAPHY

SAY GOODBYE to Pain

The caring physicians at Central Florida Pain Relief Centers set the standard for quality pain management.

aybe you are having difficulty getting back to your everyday life after suffering a debilitating stroke. Or you may be experiencing muscle spasticity or joint pain that isn’t allowing you to participate in activities with your loved ones that you have always enjoyed. If this sounds like you, then you just might benefit from a visit to Central Florida Pain Relief Centers. With four locations around Central Florida, new patients find relief quickly since they are able to see a physician within one week of making an appointment. During the initial appointment, a physician will take the patient’s medical history and perform a full examination to determine the cause of the pain before developing a treatment plan that is tailored to his or her specific needs. This individualized care allows patients to better manage their pain. Dr. Michael Creamer of the downtown Orlando location describes the typical patient as, “someone who has a disability or impairment that limits them from participating in their daily activities – an individual who wants to be able to interact in society to a greater degree.” What sets Central Florida Pain Relief Centers apart isn’t just the quality interventional pain management that is provided by trusted physicians, the promptness in setting appointments, or the nurturing manner in which

patients are treated. It’s the fact that the practice can care for all of a patient’s needs under one roof, no matter the ailment. And with five physicians assigned to a specific location, you will always be able to see the same physician who already knows the ins and outs of your medical history and treatment plan. Each physician, physician’s assistant and nurse practitioner at Central Florida Pain Relief Centers is committed to their patients for the long haul. “We are going to assist in their care for many years,” Dr. Creamer says. “We take on any patient knowing that it is going to be a long-term relationship.” Recently, Central Florida Pain Relief Centers welcomed Dr. Nilusha Fernando, the newest physician at the downtown Orlando practice, to its staff. She is a fellowship trained, interventional pain physician who is double board certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation as well as the subspecialty of pain medicine. Dr. Robert Kent is also new to the practice. Board certified in interventional pain management and rehabilitation, he is now seeing patients at the Altamonte Springs location. Whether you’re living with minor aches or are suffering from chronic pain, Central Florida Pain Relief Centers is committed to offering quality comprehensive care that will get you back to a normal lifestyle.

Read more online at j.mp/painreliefcenters 100 W. Gore Street, Suite 500, Orlando, FL 32806 • Phone 407-649-8707 683 Douglas Avenue, Suite 101, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 • Phone: 407-478-1510 325 Waymont Court, Suite 111, Lake Mary FL 32746 • Phone: 407-302-4770 7350 Sandlake Commons Blvd., Suite 2212-A, Orlando, FL 32819 • Phone: 407-363-9668 CentralFloridaPainRelief.com www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com 11

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Central Florida Lifestyle | December 2015

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Actively giving back during the holiday season is the gift that keeps on giving for many Central Florida families. By Jocelyn Baker

uring the holidays, families come together for big Christmas dinners, gift exchanges, decorating and quality time. This year, why not grow closer with your family through coming together to do good for someone else? Donating money is a helpful way to do your part, but for those looking to actively give back this holiday season, there are many volunteer opportunities that family members of all ages can do together. Mending Hearts Charities has a program that matches participating families with families in need to help them with a variety of requests, from providing groceries to assisting with rent payments. Similarly, Orange County Fire Rescue has an Adopt a Fire Station program that has been bringing holiday cheer to firefighters for five years now. HOPE Helps Inc, a nonprofit organization that focuses on preventing homelessness, holds an event every December where volunteers can distribute food, toys, and other basic needs to the homeless. Help the Homeless Hope Helps Inc (HOPE) is a nonprofit organization that focuses on housing, outreach, prevention and education to help prevent homelessness in Central Florida. It holds an

event called Christmas in the City every December. People in the community can drop off donations for the toy drive prior to the day of the event and then volunteers will come and organize them in preparation for the event. This will be the eighth year that Christmas in the City will be benefiting the community. HOPE collects new unwrapped toys, gift cards, clothing items and school supplies all in preparation to give out to families for the holidays. During Christmas in the City, individuals are not only provided with the items listed above but each family also receives a complete Christmas dinner, a professional portrait, and a hot meal is served the day of the event. Whether you choose to donate monetarily, donate items, hold a donation drive or volunteer on the day of the event, anything helps. Kristina Rose of East Orlando and her family have donated toys for the past three years and have volunteered to sort donations in advance of the event for the past two years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It has provided us with a way to focus on giving, not getting, and it has de-commercialized Christmas for us,â&#x20AC;? she says. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event is scheduled for Dec. 12 and will be held at University Carillon United Methodist Church. Pre-registration is required to attend.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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Be a Support System Mending Hearts Charities, a nonprofit that helps low-income families in becoming self-sufficient and maintaining economic stability, gives the community a chance to give unto others. Its Adopt A Family program matches families in need with a family who is willing to help in a number of ways. And this program offers support for those in need all year long, not just during the holiday season. During Christmastime, representatives from Mending Hearts reach out to families in need, asking the adults to make a list of their basic needs and asking the children to write Dear Santa letters that list what they want for Christmas. The children are also asked to list what they want to get their mom and dad for Christmas if they could. The organization uses these lists to match the family in need with people that want to donate their time and charitable gifts during this season of giving back. These individuals or families can then choose to help the family they adopted by paying their mortgage for the month, providing food or giving gifts. In some cases, the families receiving assistance will allow the family they were matched with to enter their home and let them help out with their Christmas celebrations.

COURTESY OF ORANGE COUNTY FIRE RESCUE

Individuals, businesses and families can participate in the Adopt a Fire Station program.

Firefighters across Orange County welcome the support of the community during the holiday season.

For the families receiving assistance, the help means a lot. Clyde, a veteran that has benefitted from the Adopt A Family program, returned from duty to find the life he left at home falling apart. Stephanie Richards, an employee at Mending Hearts, found Clyde and his family a support team to help with the struggles that they were going through. “The mentors she introduced us to have been invaluable,” he says. “They treat us like family. Mending Hearts is our angel here on earth.” Adopt a Fire Station Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs started the Adopt a Fire Station program with Orange County Fire Rescue in 2012 to give members of the community a chance to bring holiday cheer to Orange County firefighters while they are away from their families during the holidays. The program began last month and will run through the end of December. Citizens, organizations and local businesses can choose a fire station to adopt and then schedule a visit with the firefighters. During the visit, participants can tour the station, bring food and other holiday treats to share, and most importantly, provide company for the firefighters that are hard at work.

Tiana Davis, who schedules the Adopt a Fire Station visits, has seen the benefits of this initiative in the gratitude from the firefighters and in the genuine excitement from the groups who are adopting them. “This is a heartwarming and humbling event for our firefighters,” Orange County Fire Chief Otto Drozd III says. “It is a wonderful feeling to have the community say thank you while our firefighters spend the holiday season away from their families. We are excited to host the event at our stations.” Many of the fire stations involved in this program are very active within their communities aside from their daily jobs, so the families that take part consider them an extension of their families. That is why some of the participating families show their gratitude longer than just the months of Thanksgiving and Christmas. Some choose to give back to the firefighters at every holiday all year long. Last year, 29 of the 41 Orange County fire stations were adopted, and this year’s goal is to have all 41 stations adopted throughout the holidays. For more information about volunteering with the organizations mentioned in this story, visit our website at CentralFloridaLifestyle.com.

Central Florida Lifestyle | December 2015

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HOLIDAY SPREAD. CHRISTMAS CHEERS. CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY BUFFET Friday, December 25 th | 12 PM - 5 PM

Celebrate the season with our artfully crafted Christmas Holiday Buffet. This dazzling feast includes Chef creations such as cavatappi pasta with lobster asiago sauce, chipotle-lime smoked salmon and roast prime rib of beef au jus. And donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget the delectable desserts including the Christmas Yule log.

COMPLIMENTARY HOUSE WINE FREE VALET PARKING

$39.95* $17.95* per adult per child (4-10)

$3.00 OFF per adult for advance reservations

Children 3 and under eat free. Call 407.996.0256 or visit RosenPlaza.com/Holidays for menu, reservations (strongly recommended) and for details about our other holiday events. *Plus service charge and sales tax.

9700 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819

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>PLACES+TO+GO

COURTESY OF THE EPICUREAN HOTEL

A wall dedicated to wine welcomes guests at the Epicurean Hotel.

The Tampa Trinity:

Food, Fitness and Culture At the Epicurean Hotel, guests have ready access to creative meals, free bicycles and the city’s arts centers. By Rona Gindin

ou’ll be greeted with a sip of wine at the Epicurean Hotel, where a lobby wall is made of wooden wine crate parts. You’ll spy lettuces and herbs growing hydroponically from the restaurant wall. Yet more edible greens — raised for spa treatments — sprout from the mani/pedi room wall. Surrounding that vertical garden is an expanse comprised of wine corks glued side by side. During the summer Sunday Splash, you might float atop an inflatable raft resembling an orange slice. Get it? Food and wine pervade the Epicurean Hotel, a 2-year-old lodging facility just outside downtown Tampa. The boutique inn, owned in part by the Bern’s Steak House folks, is a short bike

ride from urban pedestrian trails that extend through scenic areas into downtown parks, museums and stages. Hotel guests are free to hop onto an Electra Townie cruiser from the in-house fleet of two-wheelers at will. Orlando residents seeking a weekend escape with fine meals, fine art and a pleasant way to burn off calories, might choose the Epicurean, an unusual choice that is only 90 minutes away. In the hotel itself, the epicurean theme intertwines with every element. All artwork throughout the property has some tie-in to comestibles. A giant fork-and-knife replica stands guard over the bicycle rack. Etchings of grape vines and eating utensils distinguish the glass

plates outside every guest room door. Behind those doors, lodgers can mix up cocktails using in-room shakers, adding in jarred martini condiments such as blue cheese stuffed olives. Prefer wine? Five bottles will be at the ready near your minibar. On the lobby level, a spiffy 40-seat culinary classroom boasts a contemporary stage and stadium seating. The space hosts wine tastings, food preparation demonstrations and cook-offs among local chefs. Across from that, the Library Lounge, a common seating area, displays some of the Bern’s family’s 30,000 cookbooks; proceeds from sales benefit a culinary charity. A wine and spirits store specializes in rare bot-

Central Florida Lifestyle | December 2015

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PLACES+TO+GO<

Herbs used for spa treatments are grown hydroponically at the hotel.

COURTESY OF THE EPICUREAN HOTEL

Add a couple of days to your stay — if not to explore all of these cultural draws, then to try out Tampa’s other notable restaurants. Among them are The Refinery, a humble former house serving farm-to-table fare; Ulele, a large loft-like space incorporating native Florida foods like alligator and datil pepper into a broad menu; and Anna’s Americana Folk Art Café, with an eclectic bill of fare and live music. COURTESY OF BERN’S STEAK HOUSE

tles, and Chocolate Pi, a bakery, serves sweets and coffee drinks. The bar of the hotel’s restaurant, Èlevage, stocks no commercial fruit juices. If your drink is fruity, the juice was extracted from the fruit that day (except for cranberry, which is purchased from a local farmer). Some cocktails, like the Cucumber Gimlet, are a refreshing mix of sweet and savory. At Edge, the rooftop bar, forget about ordering common cocktails like Jack and Coke. Many of the spirits are from boutique distillers, and the mixers are hand-crafted. Èlevage is, in practice, the heart of the Epicurean. Bright yet warm, expansive yet sectioned into smaller areas, the all-day restaurant is topped with a drop ceiling of crossed rope that hangs from wood taken from a bourbon distillery in Kentucky. While Èlevage has an ambitious menu, it’s part of a trio of related restaurants along the same Hyde Park/SoHo street. Bern’s is an old-fashioned steakhouse that has been searing T-bones since 1956. It is timeless. About a block north, its vivacious offspring, Haven, fills with 30-something professionals out to share plates of inventive foods like General Tso’s Duck Tongues. Even the less adventurous options are worthy of Instagram posts. All of this tasting can put on pounds, yet those Epicurean cruisers are an enticing antidote. Turn right out of the hotel and head to Bayshore Boulevard, where a 4.5-mile sidewalk runs along Hillsborough Bay. You’ll enjoy expansive water views with a collection of ogle-worthy homes across the street. If you turn left, you’ll hit the city center after several miles, bits of which have exercise gear along the trail. There, you’ll have access to another trail, called Riverwalk, which connects with museums including the Tampa Museum of Art, parks such as the Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, and the David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts. The Tampa Bay History Center and the Florida Aquarium lie on the southern end of Riverwalk. Of course, car and cab will get you to any of these spots too.

Why visit Tampa when it’s so much like Orlando? Because its restaurants, its artwork, its performances, and one particular hotel are distinctive enough that you’ll feel like you’re really on vacation. Read more online at j.mp/epicureanhotel

Treat yourself to a meal at Bern’s Steak House while you’re in Tampa.

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in+Style

>IN+STYLE

Festive Get in the spirit at your holiday party this year by donning the season’s hottest styles.

Fashions

Compiled by Catherine Pope

Dress to Impress

Whether you’re keeping it classic in a little black dress or spicing it up in a jumpsuit, flattering cuts in an elegant black hue are always in style. Draped V-Neck Dress in Black, $138, IsaacMizrahi.com

Silver and Gold

Nothing is more elegant than timeless silver and gold jewelry. Put a modern spin on it with geometric shapes and architectural designs. Gold Twist Gypsy Hoop Earrings, $225, RobertLeeMorris.com Silver Twist Earrings, $145, RobertLeeMorris.com

All the Trimmings

Nothing dresses up an outfit better than an eye-popping accessory. Opt for a gold clutch or a sultry pair of red or berry heels to capture the festive spirit of the season. Octavia Clutch in Gold, $138, IsaacMizrahi.com Lulette Suede d’Orsay Pump in Red and Berry, $99, IsaacMizrahi.com

Catherine Pope has been a writer and publicist for some of the world’s leading fashion, beauty and luxury brands for the past eight years. She has spearheaded industry events, new collection launches and New York Fashion Week for clients.

Central Florida Lifestyle | December 2015

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IN+STYLE<

We’ve Got You Covered

Who says outerwear needs to be boring? Let layering be your friend with ultra-cozy sweaters topped with chic blazers or a longerlength trench coat for formal occasions. The look is polished to perfection without being stodgy. Look One: Navy Merino Wool Crew Neck Sweater, $129, JachsNY.com Blue Donegal Herringbone Blazer, $199, JachsNY.com Khaki Bowie Fit Stretch Corduroy Pant, $89, JachsNY.com Look Two: Blue Light Flannel Cargo Pant, $129, JachsNY.com Charcoal Merino Wool Cardigan, $129, JachsNY.com Navy Plaid Madison Shirt, $79, JachsNY.com Grey Brushed Twill Half Trench Coat, $249, JachsNY.com

Buttoned Up

Let your personality shine with a playful button down, or take it back to basics with a classic blue offset with a pencil stripe tie. Either way — all eyes will be on you. Shirt/Tie Set, Blue Glen Plaid Shirt & Navy Pencil Stripe Tie, $69.50, NickGraham.com Black Polka Dot Sport Shirt, $69.50, NickGraham.com

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Do you have a business in the Celebration area?

Get involved with the Celebration Area Council and grow your business through great networking and events! The Celebration Area Council, under the umbrella of the Kissimmee/Osceola County Chamber of Commerce, hosts educational lunches and networking events to promote business in Celebration. The Celebration Area Council Board of Directors meets the first Tuesday of every month at Stetson University’s Celebration campus. For more information about the Celebration Area Council, the Kissimmee/Osceola County Chamber of Commerce, or becoming a Chamber member, please contact Robin Hughes at rhughes@kissimmeechamber.com or 407-847-4523.

Central Florida Lifestyle | December 2015

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YOUR+HEALTH<

your +

SPONSORED BY:

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>LOCAL+LIFE

Golf Tournament Salutes Armed Forces

Super Hero Surprise for Young Cancer Patient Seven-year-old Cole St. Clair of Dr. Phillips is an ordinary youngster fighting an unordinary illness. He has diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a rare, inoperable pediatric brain tumor found in the brainstem. The part of the brain affected controls basic functions like breathing and swallowing. DIPG affects approximately 300 children each year and has a five-year survival rate of less than 1 percent. It is most common in elementary school-aged children but can affect children of any age. Cole travels to Maryland monthly for treatments as he bravely combats the disease.

Orlando, says. “Their support will enable us to continue our mission and provide assistance and counseling to military members and their families in our region.” During the event, local business leader and advocate for veteran support, Kyle Evans, was presented with the American Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces award.“While serving our nation, I experienced firsthand the amazing work that the American Red Cross performs on behalf of our servicemen and women and how they continue to support our veterans,”he says. “This award demonstrates our shared commitment to assist those who dedicated their lives to our nation.”

Last month, family and friends arranged a special surprise during his homecoming. A limousine picked Cole up from the airport and dropped him off at his home, where a group of family, friends and his favorite super heroes were waiting to welcome him with balloons and banners with words of encouragement. Surprises like this one are his family’s way of building memories with him right now. Cole’s supporters are currently running a social media campaign in the hopes of having Iron Man himself, Robert Downey Jr., send well wishes via video message to his biggest fan.

Local Organization Collects Baby Supplies Nearly 30 percent of new families in Central Florida have had to cut back on food, childcare and utilities to be able to afford enough diapers to change their newborns on a regular basis. That is why the Heart of Florida United Way is stepping in with its Basics for Babies supply drive, which is now in its fifth year. The drive benefits at-risk families and infants in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties. Individuals and businesses are encouraged to host collection drives or to donate items directly to the United Way.

On Nov. 6, the American Red Cross Central Florida Region held the 2015 Salute to the Armed Forces Golf Tournament at the Hawk’s Landing Golf Course at World Center Marriott. More than 100 business leaders from Orlando participated to support programs benefitting military members and their families. Proceeds will benefit the American Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces program in the Central Florida region. “It was incredible to see the way the local business community came together to support the Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces,” Katherine Boo Gonzalez, executive director for American Red Cross of Greater

Needed items include diapers, wipes, formula, new infant apparel (0-24 months) and new blankets. United Way will collect, assemble and deliver care packages to families in need through partner agencies: BETA Center, Harbor House of Central Florida, SafeHouse of Seminole, Salvation Army Orlando, Help Now of Osceola Inc., Heart of Florida United Way Emergency Homelessness Services and more. Supply drives will be held through Dec. 7, and all donations are due to the United Way by Dec. 9.

Bikers Gather to Combat Hunger One in six Central Floridians lack consistent access to adequate amounts of food, so Orlando Harley-Davidson and Second Harvest Food Bank teamed up in October for the 2nd annual Hogtoberfest in an effort to raise the necessary funds to help fight hunger locally. The event featured live music from local classic rock bands, meet and greets with celebrity custom bike builders, and meals prepared by Second Harvest chefs. Raffle prizes included a 2016 Harley-Davidson

Street Glide, and all proceeds from raffle ticket sales benefited Second Harvest. “It’s truly inspiring to see members of our community enjoy themselves while coming together to raise awareness around such a critical issue,”Dave Krepcho, president and CEO at Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, says.“Because of community partners like Orlando Harley-Davidson, we’re able to continue putting food on the tables of the tens of thousands of vulnerable families and children in Central Florida.”

Central Florida Lifestyle | December 2015

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WOCC Welcomes New Board The West Orange Chamber of Commerce (WOCC) is set to hold its annual Member Appreciation Breakfast — a who’s who among chamber members. The breakfast, to be held on Dec. 3 at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center, will involve a celebration of the WOCC’s award-winning year, the Passing-of-theGavel Ceremony, recognition of the outgoing board members, and installation of the incoming chairman, appointed director of HR, and elected treasurer. The ballroom tables will be decorated with stunning centerpieces created by mem-

Stina D’Uva is president of the West Orange Chamber of Commerce, which won the 2015 Chamber of the Year Award.

ber businesses, and each attendee gets to take home a gift item provided by the centerpiece-sponsoring businesses. During the ceremony, the WOCC will: • Pay tribute to outgoing Board Chairman Debbie Clements, government community relations manager for Duke Energy, and new president of West Orange Committee of 101. • Bid farewell to board member Francine Burruezo of MetroWest Golf Club. • Install the following board members: • Incoming Chairman Rob Maphis, vice president, OHL — Arellano Construction Co. • Incoming board members Camille Evans, attorney at Greenberg Traurig; Dawn Willis, publisher of West Orange Times & Observer; and Pam Thomas, owner of Pammie’s Sammies • Newly elected Treasurer Jeff Milhausen, partner in the law firm of South Milhausen, P.A., and Appoint-

Ribbon cuttings for Wells Fargo Bank and Century 21 Blue Sky Realty Group.

ed Director of HR Joe Alarie, owner Alarie Design Associates Inc.

Upcoming Events: January 21 Business After Hours Event Sponsor: Health Central Hospital 5:30-7 p.m. Valencia College West Campus Special Events Center Chamber members: $5 in advance, $10 at the door Non-members: $20 January 29 Big Orange Awards 6-9 p.m. Disney’s Contemporary Resort 4600 North World Drive Orlando, FL 32830

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>SCHOOL+NEWS

Local District Administrator Recognized Sara Au, the district coordinator for Partners in Education since 2010, is the 2015 Adele Graham Award recipient. Au works to connect businesses and schools and was honored with this recognition for her leadership and sustained support of the school volunteer program. She leads more than 200 school-based coordinators and 1,200 community partners, and she is an active community member who advocates for many notable campaigns and cases across Orange County. The Adele Graham Award is named after former Florida First Lady Adele Graham, the wife of former Florida Governor and former U.S. Senator Bob Graham. Passionate about the importance of all school districts having an organized school volunteer program, Adele’s mission is to grow these programs in school districts across the United States. This award was developed to reward the leaders who are involved with these programs.

Dedication of New Elementary Schools Six Orange County Public Schools facilities were renovated, replaced or opened as new in the fall, and last month, many of these schools held dedication ceremonies to celebrate with the community. Apopka and Lovell elementary schools in Apopka held ceremonies on Nov. 10, Independence Elementary School in Winter Garden celebrated on Nov. 11, Eagle Creek Elementary School in East Orlando held festivi-

ties on Nov. 18 and Lake Weston Elementary School on Nov. 20. Clay Springs Elementary School in Apopka will hold its ceremony on Jan. 5. While each event had its own special events, all ceremonies included ribbon cuttings and student participation. All of the schools were upgraded to a district standard that includes a single secured entrance, wiring for one-to-one devices, closed-circuit TV studios for student use, audio

enhancement in the classrooms and other spaces, and interactive projectors and screens. Each school includes administrative offices, classrooms, a multipurpose space and cafeteria, a media center, a kitchen, art and music labs, parking lots, covered walkways, play areas, outdoor activity spaces and parent drop-off loops. The district plans to open eight new, renovated or replacement schools in the fall of 2016 and 15 in the fall of 2017.

Surprise for Student Singers From Sept. 8 to Oct. 9, students, faculty and staff of schools across the country submitted videos of students performing a cappella numbers for Macy’s All-School A Cappella Challenge. Three $25,000 prizes were awarded in total — one for the elementary through middle school level, one for the high school level, and one for the college level.

On Nov. 13, students from Orange Center Elementary School in Orlando were surprised at a school assembly with the news that they took home the prize for their rendition of “I Want You Back” by The Jackson 5. The students were told the assembly was being held to honor the 90% Achievers Club. The A Cappella Challenge was part

of Macy’s back-to-school initiatives for the 2015-2016 school year. Pentatonix, a platinum selling and Grammy Award winning a cappella group, was an ambassador for the program and judged for part of the evaluation process. To view the students award-winning video, visit our website at CentralFloridaLifestyle.com. ROBERTO GONZALEZ/AAPIMAGES

Central Florida Lifestyle | December 2015

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SCHOOL+NEWS<

New STEM Pilot Program for Young Golfers

On Oct. 20, The First Tee of Central Florida launched a pilot STEM program for a class of 21 fifth graders from Whispering Oaks Elementary School in Winter Garden. This is the sixth STEM initiative of its kind among The First Tee programs nationwide. Students went to Stoneybrook West Golf Club to participate in a half day of STEM activities at the course’s Ecology Study Area, where they studied botany as well as ornithology and herpetology. The curriculum was developed in conjunction with TEQGames and Universal Studios, which has a mission to make learning experiences as exciting as theme parks. The team’s diverse experience with local attrac-

tions companies provides a foundation for developing learning experiences that inspire and engage student audiences. “Developing a STEM-based curriculum to deliver through The First Tee of Central Florida was really a natural next-step initiative given our ongoing engagement with youth throughout the region,”Thomas Lawrence, executive director for The First Tee of Central Florida, says.“It was very encouraging to see the students in our pilot program so engaged and hungry to learn, and it was educational even for adult members of the staff as we were able to learn the intricacies of the course we were on and the environment surrounding that course.”

Bringing Joy Through Christmas Cards

Holy Family Catholic School (HFCS) students in sixth through eighth grades will be joining together to bring holiday cheer to residents of a local senior center by making handmade Christmas cards and delivering them in person. This will be the fifth year that students will be participating in the event. Tana Little, a faculty member at the school, began the tradition with her own family 10 years ago. When her family saw the happiness on the seniors’faces and realized that, instead of gifts, they wanted

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to spend time with people who cared, Little decided to start the tradition again with HFCS students. What began as a small way to give back with a group of only 70 students eventually turned into three grade levels working together to make nearly 100 cards. Little says the students are usually timid at first but eventually warm up when the see the light in the seniors’eyes. They stay to hold their hands and read the notes in the cards before wishing them a Merry Christmas.

Students Benefit from Innovative Gift Initiatives in the school board’s Philanthropic Strategic Plan (PSP) benefit Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) students throughout the year. Recently, JLR Center for Pain Medicine, Jewett Orthopaedic Clinic and Orlando Health Physician Associates invested in Rosemont Elementary School, which is now able to upgrade its clinical staff from a school health assistant to a licensed practical nurse (LPN). The licensed nurses initiative in the PSP seeks to ensure that every school is staffed with a licensed nurse. The goal of this initiative is to provide an LPN in every elementary school and a registered nurse

in every middle and high school. The Winter Park Health Foundation and Orlando Health provide support for multiple schools in their service areas, but the joint gift effort from these three medical groups to support one school is the first of its kind. “We are very grateful to these businesses for wrapping their arms around our children,”OCPS Philanthropic Development Director, Debi Pedraza says. “I hope this will help inspire other businesses, groups and individuals to consider adopting a school or school that need an upgraded position. Helping one school means helping hundreds of children and their families.”

A D I V I S I O N O F V S M E D I A G R O U P, I N C .

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COURTESY OF BRANDON BUTLER

The Butler family relocated to Cambodia to help fight human trafficking.

MISSION: E L B I S S PO

These missionaries left the comfort of their homes in Central Florida to disciple to others during a time usually allocated for family togetherness — Christmas time. By Jenny Fauser

hristmas is blanketed by joyous laughter, church gatherings, carols, gifts and comfort food. Time-honored traditions steeped in cherished moments with family and friends are anticipated all year. A select few, though, remove themselves from this familiarity for the sake of the greater good. Brandon Butler, his wife Natasha and their children India, Judah and Naomi of the Mosaic Church Community will spend their holiday away

from home this year on a mission to share the love of Christ in Southeast Asia. The family serves as missionaries in Siem Reap, Cambodia, where 95 percent of the population claims Buddhism as their religion. Fighting Human Trafficking Brandon, the regional director of Agape International Missions (AIM) spends his time fighting to end human trafficking, restoring victims and transforming communities. He and his family have been in Cambodia for more than two years. “We plan on

being here as long as God has us and there is work to be done,” Brandon says. His missionary work uses a holistic strategy of prevention, rescue, restoration and reintegration to fight the ground war on child sex trafficking. Described by Gary Haugen of International Justice Mission, human trafficking is “the ugliest, most preventable man-made disaster on the globe today,” destroying the lives of more than 30 million children over the past 30 years (according to UNICEF). AIM’s program helps more than 10,000 people in Cambo-

Central Florida Lifestyle | December 2015

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Engaging New Believers Across the globe in Italy, another missionary is also hard at work sharing the love of Christ with others. Justin Valiquette, of the Winter Garden area, has been in Italy for four years planting a church and training indigenous leaders at Nuova Vita, Salerno. In an area claimed to hold a history of spiritual darkness, Valiquette believes beginning a church and cul-

COURTESY OF JUSTIN VALIQUETTE

COURTESY OF BRANDON BUTLER

dia each year. With God’s arms reaching out to so many, it is no wonder Brandon’s favorite thing about being in the country is the work he does. “I get to see lives actually rescued out of captivity, and then I get to walk alongside those lives as they begin the process of healing and freedom,” he says. “Honestly, who gets to say they do that every day?” Though it’s the favorite part of his journey, he admits, his job is not easy as he encounters innumerable heartbreaking situations daily. Through the trials and tribulations, Brandon strongly believes his family’s work in Cambodia is worth it. “It is the reason why we have moved our family of five to the other side of the world,” he says. In a land where Christmas has little meaning, Brandon and his team at AIM see miracles take place on an everyday basis, though he admits that it is difficult for the family to be away from home during the holidays. He says most of all he misses family, friends and their community that comes together to celebrate. “We miss not having the midnight candlelight services, the caroling with friends, the Christmas music on the radio, and taking the children to see the lights on the houses,” Brandon says. Even though it is hard to be away, he and Natasha believe it is worth the sacrifice. “It teaches our kids to value what Christmas is really about,” he says. In addition, his family gets the privilege to celebrate the joy of experiencing Christmas with those for whom the holiday is new. Watching first-time celebrators enjoy and learn the true meaning of the holiday offers the Butler family a uniquely special time.

Justin Valiquette started a new church in Italy to lead others to the Christian faith.

tivating its members to disciple will yield amazing results for the Kingdom of Christ. But he knows the task isn’t easy. In fact, less than 1 percent of Italy has an evangelical church presence, leaving the country with few examples of churches that are impacting and redeeming their cities with the Gospel. Valiquette’s strong passion for the vital role of local churches in the world, and a heart for the nation of Italy, led him to this path of mission work. “I love learning a new culture and seeing what exercising my faith looks like here,” he says. “Being in America can be so comfortable sometimes that you rarely have to exercise faith in God on a practical level. Being here makes us realize how much we need Him every day. We’re nothing without Jesus.” He hopes that as new believers are engaged in the redeeming love of God, the people of Italy will begin to redefine what it means to be part of a biblically faithful church. His reliance on his faith proves strong during the holiday season. “It’s really hard being away from home, especially from family and friends,” Valiquette says. “It has caused us to really enjoy each other more deeply and appreciate the true meaning of Christmas.”

On a Mission As your family celebrates the holidays this year, remember the individuals and families spread throughout the world who are on a mission of love. They reside in foreign lands such as Brazil, Mexico, Italy, Southeast Asia, South and North Africa, Kenya, the Philippines and Honduras. Some are welcomed missionaries where others are not and risk their lives to pursue their current purpose. Each of them has a home and family they won’t visit this year. Yet their passion for God and their passion for others propel them to continue their work. The efforts of those who choose to be away from the comfort and customs they’ve grown to love during Christmas are best summed up in Luke 4, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed.” For more stories about local missionaries and their work, visit our website at CentralFloridaLifestyle.com.

www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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COURTESY OF BRITT RUNION

>YOUR+LOCAL

Malala’s Song

Left to right: McKinney Griffen, Alan Reitman and Rob Lamp formed the band “Yesterday’s Future.”

This local band is supporting girls’ education by giving proceeds from digital downloads of its recently released pop-rock song to charity. By Brittany Ann Morrisey

“L

ook into her eyes, you can see the fire. Her desire to fly higher and higher. She’s a rocket girl,” goes the chorus of “Rocket Girl – Malala’s Song,” a newly released song from local band Yesterday’s Future. Inspired by the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai, who was targeted by the Taliban for speaking out against the terrorist group’s efforts to stop girls from going to school, Rob Lamp of MetroWest wrote the lyrics of this indie pop song after reading the book, “I Am Malala.” Lamp, along with fellow band members Alan Reitman and McKinney Griffen, turned these lyrics into an indie pop-rock song that is not only an uplifting tune but also supports girls education. All proceeds from the song will be donated to the Malala Fund, a nonprofit that seeks to “enable girls to complete 12 years of safe, quality education.” People can go to iTunes and Amazon to purchase the song, which appears on the band’s eponymous album.

Malala Yousafzai was just 15 years old when a Taliban gunman shot her in the head in October 2012 while she was commuting home from school in Pakistan. The Taliban, an extremist insurgent group that arose in the Middle East in the ’90s, had previously issued a death threat against Malala because she had publicly spoken out against the group’s attempts to stop girls from going to school. Malala recovered from her gunshot wound and despite the Taliban’s threats has remained an advocate for education. Lamp says what he saw in Malala was courage. “What I admire about her: In the face of these threats, she never abandoned her values or faith,” he says. Lamp is the “yesterday” part of “Yesterday’s Future.” He’s a classic rock fan who wanted to be Ringo Starr when he was a kid, he says. The “future” part of the band comes from guitarist Reitman and lead singer Griffen, who give the song its

rock-pop sound. Reitman also produced the song, including adding in new drums and bass guitar to polish up the rough draft Lamp had put together. “The song is very story-oriented,” he says. “Once we heard the whole thing together, we were like, ‘This creates a cool story.’” Then Griffen came in to sing his parts. “He did add his own flair to it,” Reitman says. Lamp has a 2-year-old granddaughter who likes to listen to the song. “I call her my rocket girl,” he says. “I just tell her, ‘Be my rocket girl. Don’t be afraid to do something.’” You can catch the band live at Yellow Dog Eats, located in Windermere, on Dec. 5 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. For more information about Yesterday’s Future and to see the band’s music video for “Rocket Girl,” visit our website at CentralFloridaLifestyle.com.

Central Florida Lifestyle | December 2015

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December Calendar December 4

Light Up Winter Garden 6-9 p.m. Plant Street CWGDN.com Welcome the season with live entertainment, vendors, shopping and children’s activities. The lighting ceremony will be at 6:15 p.m.

December 4-20

Miracle on 34th Street Friday: 8 p.m. Saturday: 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Sunday: 2 p.m. Garden Theatre $25-$33 ($15 ages 12 and under on Saturday matinees) 407.877.4736 GardenTheatre.org After meeting a special department store Santa who is convinced he’s the real thing, a little girl is given the most precious gift of all — something to believe in.

December 5

December 10

Alzheimer’s Disease and Brain Health – The Basics 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Golden Pond Communities 400 Lake View Road Winter Garden, FL 34787 Free 407.843.1910 This event, presented by the Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center, is open to the public.

December 10

Canines & Cocktails 6:39-9:30 p.m. Rosen Centre Hotel Ballroom AB $75 per person AKCCHF.org Enjoy an evening of celebration for 20 years of canine health research. Cocktail reception will include heavy hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, live music and dancing, strolling magician and more.

Winter Garden Christmas Parade 1-2:30 p.m. South Dillard and Plant Streets CWGDN.com This long-standing holiday tradition will delight spectators and bring in the holiday cheer.

Dinner & Letter Writing with Santa 5-8 p.m. Rosen Centre Hotel $23.95 adults, $10.95 children 407.996.9840 RosenCentre.com/holidays Enjoy a dinner buffet before checking in with Santa to craft a wish list. Santa and letter writing activity included with dinner buffet price. Reservations strongly recommended.

December 12

Festivals of Speed Display of Exotics 10 a.m. – 4 .m. The Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes $20 adults, kids 12 and under are free FestivalsofSpeed.com A showcase of vintage and contemporary vehicles of all makes and models, including exotic supercars, custom motorcycles, watercraft and more.

Celebrate Dogs! 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Orange County Convention Center Live.Eukanuba.com Eukanuba & The American Kennel Club presents the nation’s largest canine extravaganza. Enjoy AKC Meet the Breeds, the fun zone, doggie boutiques, and more!

December 12-13

Cake Pop Decorating & Lunch with Santa 11:30 a.m. Rosen Centre Hotel $15.95 adults, $9.95 children 407.996.9840 RosenCentre.com/holidays Join Santa and the Rosen Centre chefs as they demonstrate the art of cake pop decorating. Cake pops and visit with Santa are included in the lunch buffet price. Reservations strongly recommended.

December 12-13

December 11-12, 18-19

December 6

December 12-13

Holiday Celebration and Amaryllis Festival 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Nehrling Gardens 2267 Hempel Avenue Gotha, FL 34734 Free 407.445.9977 NehrlingGardens.org Enjoy photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus, rare amaryllis and other plants for sale, tours of the historic home and gardens, music, vendors, children’s eco activities and more. Donate a new toy or non-perishable food items for a local charity and receive a ticket for the prize drawing.

Wine & Chocolate Festival Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards $2 donation 800.768.WINE LakeridgeWinery.com Enjoy live music, local artists and crafters, Lakeridge wine, beer, food vendors and complimentary winery tours and tastings. Proceeds will benefit the Leesburg Regional Medical Center Heart Institute.

December 19

Art, Gift and Wine Stroll 6-8 p.m. Artegon Marketplace Free ArtegonMarketplace.com Shop for local, one-of-a-kind holiday gifts while enjoying complimentary bite-sized treats, wine for Quantum Leap Winery and live music by Legacy Arts Group of Central Florida Community Arts.

December 23

In His Name…We Dance! 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Garden Theatre $15 regular admission, $12 students and seniors 407.877.4736 GardenTheatre.org Celebrate the story of Christmas through dance in a performance presented by the Centre for Dance & The Performing Arts.

Are you hosting an event in your community?

Submit event information to calendar@vsmediagroup.com for a free listing in our calendar. www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com

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Pageant

COURTESY OF CHARLOTE OMBAO

>YOUR+LOCAL

Mikee Ombao celebrates her first pageant win with her family.

Inspiration This MetroWest resident is a role model for kids to overcome obstacles and follow their dreams. By Lyndsay Fogarty

harnelle “Mikee” Ombao is your typical 7-year-old girl in that she loves to sing, dance, perform and play. At the same time, she has to be more aware of her diet than other kids her age because she was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and celiac disease. But this little MetroWest resident doesn’t let those bumps in the road deter her from doing the things she loves. During Thanksgiving week, she traveled to Anaheim, California, to represent Orlando on the stage of the 2015 National All-American Miss Princess competition. Her mom, Charlote Ombao, remembers getting a letter to an open call for the 2015 National American Miss Florida Princess, which was held at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in July. When she asked Mikee if she wanted to participate, she said, “Mommy, I want to try.” And try she did. In her first-ever pageant, Mikee won first runner-up overall out of 100 contestants in her age group and the opportunity to represent her hometown in a national competition. She also won nine trophies for categories including best talent, most ticket sales, art contest first runner-up and casual wear first runner-up. For her positive attitude, she earned a spirit award. Her parents couldn’t be any prouder of her accomplishments. “I want her to think — even though she has Type 1 or celiac — whatever she wants to do to keep herself at her best, we will support her 100 percent,” Charlote says. “And she did it.”

Giving back to the community is a big part of pageant participation. So when it was time for Mikee to celebrate her birthday in September, she insisted on having a toy drive instead of a birthday party. With the help of her first grade class at Holy Family Catholic School, she was able to gather about 100 items — two full boxes of toys, books, and arts-and-crafts supplies. Mikee donated one box to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children because of the positive experiences she had there when she was admitted during her Type 1 diabetes diagnosis. The staff gave her toys and activities that she could do to take her mind off of the reason she was there. She wanted to give the other box to Give Kids the World so she could have a hand in

helping kids who were fighting lifethreatening illnesses. “I like giving things to other kids,” Mikee says. “It feels really nice, and you know they feel really nice when you give things to them too.” For Mikee, her passion for performing is a catalyst to help other kids who are just like her. She is able to share the same message her mom shared with her as she struggled with her own health issues. “They can do anything they want to do in life,” she says. “They can make their dreams come true just like I did.” For more stories about people in other Central Florida communities, visit our website at CentralFloridaLifestyle.com.

Central Florida Lifestyle | December 2015

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ON+THE+TOWN<

Snapshots Famous Faces Masquerade Ball

On Oct. 24, Shepherd’s Hope hosted its annual Famous Faces Masquerade Ball at the Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando where attendees raised $320,000 for the organization. 1. Dick Batchelor; Andrea Batchelor, Shepherd’s Hope emeritus board member; and Thad Seymour Jr., immediate past chair of the Shepherd’s Hope board. 2. Dr. Donald Diebel and Mrs. Cindy Diebel. 3. Scott Maxwell and founder of Shepherd’s Hope Dr. William S. Barnes.

The Pineapple Ball The Rosen College of Hospitality Management celebrated the induction of Ron Dowdy and Maria Triscari into the Central Florida Hospitality Hall of Fame at Rosen Shingle Creek on Oct. 17. 4. Maria Triscari and Ron Dowdy celebrated with more than 400 members and friends of the hospitality industry. 5. Left to right: UCF College of Business Administration Dean Paul Jarley, UCF Rosen College Dean Abraham Pizam and UCF Provost A. Dale Whittaker.

4 5

Bank Gives Back

To celebrate the recent opening of its new Windermere location, Wells Fargo donated $10,000 to the Heart of Florida United Way Mission United initiative.

6. Left to right: Derek Jones, Central Florida region president; Dan Hilken, business banking area manager; John Pisan, regional wealth director; Rober H. (Bob) Brown, Heart of Florida United Way president and CEO; Brian Cicotelli, district manager; and Angel Buchanan, area president.

WOCC Golf Classic Business leaders from West Orange County participated in the WOCC Golf Classic at MetroWest Golf Club on Oct. 29. 7. Representatives from Health Central Hospital, the tournament’s double eagle sponsor, had a festive interactive booth.

8. Leaders of the West Orange Chamber of Commerce with golf tournament participants.

Send us your community event photos at snapshots@vsmediagroup.com

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>HOW+YOU+CAN+HELP

Hope at Christmas The Toys for Tots program provides hope to less fortunate children through a new toy at Christmastime.

he Central Florida Commission on Homelessness reports that more than 13,000 students were identified as being homeless in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties during the 2014-2015 school year. These students need stable housing and three balanced meals a day but getting their families back on track requires more than fulfilling these basic needs. It’s also about providing hope. That’s where the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation comes in. This national nonprofit was founded by Marine Corps reservist, Major Bill Hendricks, in 1947. It is the fundraising, funding and support organization for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program, which collects new, unwrapped toys to give as Christmas gifts to economically disadvantaged children. Locally, the local Marine Toys for Tots team works day in and day out to 50

make the Central Florida campaign a success, but it can’t be done without the help of the community. The team relies on residents, business leaders and local companies and organizations for assistance with hosting events for toy collection, allowing a business to be a drop-off location for donations, volunteering to sort toys and distributing toys to local children in need. Donations for children ages 0-2 years old and 12 years old and up are needed, although Orange and Seminole County do allow for gift distribution to children as old as 15. Toys that contain weapons or are related to law enforcement aren’t permitted, as well as toys that include candy or chemicals. Used toys will not be distributed. Any toys that are donated to the Toys for Tots program that fit this description will be donated to another charity so they do not go to waste.

The main goal of Toys for Tots — both locally and nationally — is to deliver a message of hope to less fortunate children that will assist them in becoming responsible, productive, patriotic citizens. And it is all done though a new toy at Christmas.

How you can help: 1. Arrange for your business to become a toy drop-off site. 2. Donate new, unwrapped toys by dropping them off at one of the local drop-off locations listed on the website or at the local Toys for Tots warehouse. 3. Volunteer with a local Toys for Tots warehouse.

Scan here to register to volunteer with Toys for Tots of Central Florida.

Central Florida Lifestyle | December 2015

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15-CH-01420

You value your time with family and friends above all else. When back pain robs you of your quality of life, the expert orthopaedic spine specialists at Florida Hospital are here for you. We offer the latest minimally invasive treatments that promote better, faster healing. Plus, we deliver a compassionate, faith-based brand of care that Central Floridians have come to trust for more than 100 years.

11/16/15 PM 9/8/159:30 1:24 PM