The Local: Winter Garden App Edition—September/October 2024

Fall In Love

Can you believe it? Fall is here, and although it might not feel like it, this is the perfect time to fall in love with the place we call home. Winter Garden has so many activities and events happening, we promise you will not be bored. Your Winter Garden App has an Events section complete with all the details including a map. Below are just a few of many events listed in your App.

Nature Fest Oakland Nature Preserve - September 21

The Roaring Twenties, Matthew’s Hope Fall Fundraiser - 9/28

Halloween Experience Downtown Winter Garden October 18-31

Finally, you may notice several events listed support our local not for profits. State funding cuts and inflation have had a negative impact on several of the organizations including our very own Garden Theatre. So, when we have options for weekend plans, let’s choose activities which will help others who are less fortunate. Let’s always remember why we fell in love with Winter Garden, and like any good relationship, let’s take care of each other.

Elementary

Medical

Nursing

In just three years, The Local has received 29 awards for editorial, advertising, and design excellence. This year was our best yet with 11 awards including:

Gold Best Overall Writing

Gold Best Overall Design

Gold Best Special Theme/Show Issue

Gold Best Cover Design

Gold Best Photo Essay

Gold Best Department Photo

Gold Best Advertisement for a Client

Silver Best Feature Photo

Silver Best Feature Headlines

Bronze Best Special Theme Issue

Bronze Best Use of Photography

Quality matters to our readers and advertisers. And they matter to us. We deliver compelling stories, photography, and design crafted with care. And this commitment to quality ensures that as an advertiser, your business will shine equally next to our content. Plus, we proudly remind our readers in every issue that it’s your support that allows them to enjoy a FREE magazine, urging them to return the favor by supporting your business. Partner with us to elevate your brand and connect with the community in a meaningful way.

Made local. Owned local. Loved local. Ready to join The Local economy? Contact jamie@emagency.com

After

Before

• SCREENED ENCLOSURES

• POOL CAGES

• PANEL ROOFS

• RESCREEN PROJECTS

• MOTORIZED SCREENS

• PERGOLAS

For Starters

Carol Burmood strides across

the room,

blonde hair falling in waves along her shoulders, arms outstretched, and a wide smile that oods the space like golden-hour sunshine. Never mind that it’s the rst time we’ve met in person, she’s wrapping me in a hug like we’re long-lost sisters.

She pulls back, looks me square in the eyes, and says, “You’re going to get through this. I promise. And we’re going to do it together.” And that we did.

For ve years, Carol was my rock, the voice of reason I clung to when I felt like I was drowning, the courage I leaned on when my own was in short supply. Always there, a tireless cheerleader, ready to lift me up, whether I was falling apart or nding my footing.

Carol had this uncanny ability to see you—the real you—and then wrap you up in a love so pure, it made you believe you were good, worthy, and whole. She was the kind of friend you don’t come across often—a compassionate soul with an infectious warmth and a saucy sense of humor that could make even the heaviest days feel lighter. She was grace under pressure, love in action, and extraordinary in every way.

Last month, after a fast and furious 7-week battle with Stage 4 brain cancer, Carol took her last breath. And for a moment, it felt like mine went with her. And yet… some people bring such a great light to the world that even after they’re gone, their light continues to shine.

Carol’s death has stirred a new desire in my heart—a desire for service, much like hers. I don’t have the full picture yet, but I know words will be part of it because that’s where I nd meaning. Her passing has made me realize that I want to be a light to others. To o er shelter in kindness and love when your knees buckle and the oor drops beneath you. When you’re teetering at the edge of what your heart can bear. When the road ahead is a blur, and the hurt feels like it might never heal. Carol showed me that even in the darkest times, there’s space for light to shine. And that’s what I want my legacy to be...carving hope into the darkness.

It’s so very Carol to keep breathing life into new dreams, even from the other side of the grave.

That’s what extraordinary does. Extraordinary love. Extraordinary grief. Extraordinary courage. Extraordinary dreams. They change your life in unfathomable ways.

Heather Anne Lee, Editor heather@emagency.com

If you enjoy The Local for free, please consider thanking our advertisers with your support.

Ace Hardware (Hamlin)

AntiquiTeas @Plant St Market

Axiom Bank Hamlin

Cariera’s Fresh Italian Driftwood Market

Everything Local (Clermont) Foxtail Co ee Co. (Downtown Winter Garden and Clermont) Gochi Sushi Gymnastics USA

Home State Brewing Co. Je ’s Bagel Run

Lake-Sumter State College

Little Greek @WG Village

Just Love Co ee Cafe (Clermont)

Ocoee Taco Company

OC Public Library, Winter Garden

Pammie’s Sammies

Pilars Martini & Loft Polka Dotz

Puppy Dreams

Rosallie Le French Cafe

Seacoast Bank

Schweini’s Deli

P.S. My Treat

Thai Blossom

The French Cafe

Three Birds Cafe

WG Heritage Museum

Writer’s Block Bookstore

YMCA (Roper and Doc Phillips) and more!

Nicole Spooner Account Executive nicole@mpactorlando.com 407-595-4793

WINTER GARDEN

September/October 2024 Vol. 3 No. 08

ADVERTISING

Jamie Ezra Mark Publisher jamie@emagency.com 352-425-6400

EDITORIAL

Heather Anne Lee Editor heather@emagency.com

Heather Diaz Writer Kyle Martin Writer

Mark McWaters Writer Tarin Scarbrough Writer

Austin Arthur Co-CEO Stars and Stripes Marketing Services

Shelley Dawson Realtor RE/MAX Prime Properties

Andrew Ontko Art Director Josh Clark Designer

Wendy Mak Designer Rheya Tanner Designer

Tara Zele Director of Operations Bryan Fifer State Farm Insurance

ADVISORY BOARD

Sara Noboa Account Executive sara@emagency.com 602-284-1583

Fred Lopez Chief Photographer

Evan Miklosey Web

Britt Robles Marketing Liaison

Kirsten Harrington Freelance Writer Becca Lanterman Bradford Owner, Winter Garden Senior Home Care

Mark Schmidt New Business Development, Boyer Building Corp.

Pam Thomas Owner & Founder, Pammie’s Sammies

407-573-6061 / emagency.com @EMagencyinc

The Good Stuff Awards shine a spotlight on Horizon West, celebrating the top local businesses and organizations that bring happiness to our community! The winners will be revealed at the Good Stuff Gala on September 26th at NYBP. Want to align your brand with the very best in Horizon West? Visit HorizonWestMagazine.com to be included in the Good Stuff Guide, publishing this fall.

MCO is Taking Off!

Orlando International Airport is flying ahead of unprecedented growth.

Growth in airport tra ic ballooned from 50 million passengers in 2022 to almost 58 million in 2023—a 15% increase. MCO has a strategic plan designed to keep up with that growth and even anticipate it.

New and resuming routes continue to open up and add to passengers’ travel options for domestic and international travel. Bangor, Maine and Merida, Mexico are prime examples. More destinations,

more participating airlines, and a wider selection of travel times mean more options for everyone.

The MCO App adds a whole new dimension to convenience. Designed to help make the airport easier to access, it will show you where to park, rail and transportation details, security wait times, ground transportation, and more.

Parking is always a question for people and MCO is on it! In January, the airport

created three new surface lots around the train station that added 800 parking sites. Future improvements will consolidate all rental car services in one area—freeing up about 5000 extra spaces. Plus, Terminal C is adding eight new aircraft positions, with a new Pedestrian Bridge connecting Terminal C to the Train Station slated for Fall completion.

Concessions—food and retail—are continually being refreshed. Concierge ser-

vices are expanding. Rest assured, the next time you fly, MCO has a plan to meet your plans with greater convenience and accommodation than ever before.

Stella in Stitches

From yarn to profit, one hook at a time.

Making dragons, plushies, and sweaters might not seem like a way to make a living, yet that’s exactly what Stella Wright is doing. Despite only starting last November, Stella is threading her newfound passion for crochet into

a crafty business venture called Stitched by Stell. With a bustling Etsy shop and a colorful booth at the Homegrown in Horizon West market, 19-year-old Stella is already unraveling knots in the crafting community.

From a young age, Stella has always been deeply

cination, crocheting, has fully entangled Stella. Her inspiration sparked when her boyfriend’s mom began making little crocheted gifts for her. This, along with a growing number of talented crocheters posting their creations on social media, spun Stella’s interest. There was just one thing left for her to do—learn how to crochet. She says, “I just went to the store, bought a crochet hook and yarn and said to myself, ‘Okay, just gonna go for it.’ And then, I was hooked.”

She chuckles, “There’s a stereotype around this craft—people automatically assume that only grandmothers crochet. What they don’t realize is that a lot of the crochet community is now a lot of younger people, some even younger than myself! It’s inspiring to see the newer generations with such a passion for it.”

Stella to bring customer’s ideas to life. Constructing these ideas is only limited by fabric and imagination. Visualizing just what she can do with this medium is part of the fun for Stella, “I had someone ask me if I could do a Lightning McQueen recently,’” she says enthusiastically. “It’s random requests such as this that I’ve never thought of making, but it keeps it exciting!”

Unlike knitting, crochet can’t be replicated by a machine; it must be fashioned by hand. For Stella, joy comes from knowing

Gentlemen, get ready to nail your grooming game! (@hammerandnailsgrooming) is now open. From precision haircuts and skincare to hand and foot care, plus shaves and beard treatments, they’ve got everything to keep you looking sharp. Not to be outshined, the ladies are flocking to Paint Nail Bar (@paintwintergarden) a luxe, non-toxic nail experience that’s as polished as they are. 97 first year students walked through the doors at the new Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine (@ocomorlando) last month—an epic $200 million investment in the community! Speaking of investments, West Orange Chamber (@westorangechamber) brought back its Horizon West Networking Group. It will meet the 1st and 3rd Thursday at Overture 55+ Hamlin (@OvertureHamlin), from 8-9 am. Things are booming over in Ocoee, too! Apex Fit (@apexfitocoee) announced a 140,000 sq. ft. expansion that will include basketball and volleyball courts, outdoor turf space, a medspa and restaurant. Vasant Sports is serving up pickleball dreams for Ocoee. Though the City passed on their 44-court pitch, local fans are still hoping for a big win this fall. Speaking of pickleball, our favorite renegade country cover artist Mark Houghton is opening Renegade Pickleball Shop (@renegadepickleball), your one-stop-shop for all things pickleball. And last but Je ’s Bagel Run is on a roll. With new spots in Celebration and Clermont, they’ve just bagged Otus Co ee! Bagels and co ee?

Local Music

Brian + Hannah

You might recognize them as our recent Best of the Best winners—now get ready to dive deeper into their story!

Hannah Stokes and Brian George, the dynamic duo who clinched the title of Best Local Band in our recent Reader’s Poll, rst crossed paths at an exhilarating jazz jam at Austin’s Co ee in Winter Park.

Hannah recalls, “The singer that Brian was working with at the time heard me singing and she was like, ‘You guys need to play together.’”

Their initial band went on a temporary hiatus due to COVID, but their resonance was undeniable, leading them to reunite as a duo in autumn 2020. With Hannah’s musical journey weaving through alternative, folk, and soul in uences, and Brian’s background blending rock with jazz studies, their covers bring a distinctive “improvisatory and jazz twist” to the table.

Their performances are as entertaining as they are innovative. At one notable show, they performed a

playful rendition of “Baby Shark,” which prompted an audience member to o er $60 to make them stop—a fond memory that continues to make the pair chuckle.

Brian cherishes a moment when someone commented on their connection, calling it “electric chemistry,” a compliment that has stuck with them. With their debut singles now o cially out on major platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, Hannah shares, “We’re excited to nally share our original music,” and Brian emphasizes, “We’re focused on developing songs that truly represent who we are.”

As they celebrate the launch of their singles, Brian + Hannah are just getting started. With their striking synergy and commitment to their craft, this duo is sure to keep fans on the edges of their seats.

See them perform live at the Embassy

Garden Variety

Must Haves

Market vendors spotlight their favorite wares.

John German Ligneus Creations

“I love my handcrafted wooden bowls. If I can craft a piece of nature for someone to bring into their home, I feel accomplished.”

Mary, John and Walter European Breads

“Our sourdough breads are our most popular. They are parbaked, so you can nish baking them at home. We also avoid arti cial additives and preservatives.”

History Hunt

Hidden secrets and hijinxs are all mapped out.

Looking for a fun way to learn about the history of our local community? Take a walk through downtown on the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation’s re-launched history hunt. To begin, stop by the Heritage Museum on Plant Street to grab your map. Then, your task is to find twelve treasure boxes hidden throughout historic downtown. Jim Crescitelli, Director of the Foundation enthusiastically says the hunt is a “great family activity.” The quest began around 20 years ago,

but it was put on pause during the height of the COVID outbreak. “It was so popular in the past, people have been asking us when we would get it up and running again,” voices Jim. Well, ask and you shall receive. The history hunt has returned, and with some improvements. The treasure boxes now come with QR codes which can be scanned for more information. Once you have found all the boxes, return to the museum gift shop to receive your prize. Happy hunting!

Garden Variety

Jenny Parrish

Vintage Sky Salon

If I could have any superpower? Invisibility.

If I could dine with anybody—living or dead? Donald Trump.

If I could learn any language instantly? French; it just sounds so pretty.

Kate

Marlowe Polka Dotz

If I could have any superpower? Telepathy; it would be really cool.

If I could dine with anybody—living or dead? Millicent Patrick.

If I could learn any language instantly? Spanish.

Lexie Sutter

Southern Home Bakery

If I could have any superpower? Teleportation, so I could travel to new places and experiences.

If I could dine with anybody—living or dead? The singer, Noah Kahan.

If I could learn any language instantly? Spanish.

A Very Special

Occasion

On September 13th, the West Orange Observer proudly celebrates its 119th anniversary, marking a storied journey.

Founded in 1905 by Editor A.B. Newton and a printer named March, the paper began as the Winter Garden Ricochet. Over its rich history, the paper has evolved through numerous names and owners but has consistently served as a vital community voice. Today, known as the West Orange Times, it proudly upholds its legacy as “The Voice of West Orange.”

Feeding the Fire Ravings!

In July, the WG-RRR family felt it was time to give back to our community’s unsung heroes—the brave re ghters and dedicated dispatchers who keep us safe every day. These extraordinary individuals are not just the backbone of our community’s safety; they are our neighbors, friends, and family members. What better way to

the man behind the area’s rowdiest Facebook group, reshares some standouts.

express our deep respect and gratitude? With food, of course! A huge RAVE to these local businesses for their generous donations: Frankie Liz and Daniel’s Cheesesteak House; Laurie Kelley Tarter from Chef’s Table and The Attic Door; Val Kelly and Sandra’s Seafood & Soul Kitchen; Andy Raphael and Big Boards Charcuterie;Georgia

Craven Goddard and Southern Steer Butcher Orlando;Lopez Felipe, Martha López-Jimenez and Antojitos Locos; Matt Nehmatallah and Edible Arrangements.

Experience Winter Garden’s Rants Raves Reviews Facebook group for yourself

SOLVE THE ROOT CAUSE

Don’t

Does your pet have a tail to tell? in.thelocalwg.com/tell-tails

Toothless

Two-Toed Sloth

I had a rough beginning— my mom hurt me when I was born, but my human, Jodi, saved me. She fought hard for me when I was tiny, and now I’m a spoiled, snuggly warrior. She decided to name me Toothless after that brave little dragon! Now I’m a year old and still rocking my toothless grin. I love being the center of attention, sharing my story to help people learn about caring for animals and our planet. Move over superheroes—this dragon’s got it covered!

Mission brings Toothless and his animal friends to your event or function to inspire kids of all ages.

Madi’s

I’m home to live

David Lawrence Sr. and David Jr of The SCUBA Gym

Pooled Resources

Miracles rise to the surface at The Scuba Gym.

KYLE MARTIN

David Lawrence Sr. has heard all the excuses.

“My child can’t do that.”

“My legs don’t work.”

“I’m not strong enough.”

Just wait, he’ll say, until you get out of the pool.

Over the past 15 years, David has seen life-changing transformations thanks to SCUBA and underwater therapy. Sometimes it’s limbs numbed by cerebral palsy regaining motion and range. Or it’s a child with autism taking their rst steps to independence.

Either way, con dence is found at the bottom of The SCUBA Gym’s pool.

“It changes their whole perspective, their whole being,’” David says.

Reaching this point—two gyms in Australia, four in the U.S., 80 volunteers in Orlando—required David to overcome his own doubts.

The SCUBA Gym was born from tragedy: David’s son was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2007. Surgery saved his life but left him paralyzed from the neck down. Occupational and physical therapy followed, and it got David thinking.

“I felt like if I could put David in a normal walking position and just do it over and over, his brain would wake up,” David says.

That led him to his weekend SCUBA hobby and the weightless pool environ-

ment. Patience and practice produced results, and today David Jr. can walk— even without feeling on the left side of his body. It was a gift too good not to share, so David launched

The SCUBA Gym in 2009.

As David explains it, underwater therapy introduces forgotten motions to the brain and starts

the nerves ring again. First-timers can go from wheelchair to high-kicking underwater.

“The proof is in what we’re able to do,” he says.

Underwater is also a blissfully low stimulus environment for visitors with special needs like autism. David recalls a young man who went

Local History

Then & Now

home from a session and took a shower on his own for the rst time. Those are small steps that add up to big victories, he says.

Seeing those breakthroughs and life changes answers a deep-rooted need in David to help others.

“I’m a servant. I like to serve people, always have,” he says.

Main Street Clermont, 1928 and 2024

Safe Haven

Kirklyn Bradberry finds hope, healing, and a fresh start for her family in Clermont.

KYLE MARTIN

For the rst time in months, Kirklyn Bradberry felt like she could breathe.

The welcoming hug of the New Beginnings sta held a promise of better days ahead, something she desperately needed after a season of grief and overwhelming stress.

“When they met me at the door, they were so loving and understanding,” Kirklyn says.

That rst step toward stability brought her to today: working parttime, building con dence through coaching, and gaining perspective with counseling.

“This is the perfect healing home,” she says.

Last spring, Kirklyn and her husband drove a camper with their three children from South Carolina to Central Florida in pursuit of better opportunities. Health challenges

About

created nancial stress, and the couple separated in December.

Kirklyn’s husband died in February, setting o a tailspin of events that left her without permanent housing and on the brink of separating from her children. Summer heat was already testing the fragile health of her middle daughter; homelessness was not an option.

Dozens of desperate phone calls to aid organizations eventually connected her with New Beginnings in Clermont. “I just need a month,” she pleaded, “just a chance to get ahead.”

Finally, a spot of luck: They had an opening in two days for housing.

Kirklyn was so determined to grab this lifeline that she and the kids set out on foot from Tavares when the Uber was late. Eventually their ride caught up with them, and the family arrived with just the clothes

New Beginnings

New Beginnings o ers a transitional housing program that focuses on work therapy, life skills, and financial literacy classes. Our goal is to empower individuals to lead responsible lives and achieve self-su iciency by providing the necessary tools for a sustainable lifestyle and financial freedom. According to Community Relations Manager Jeremy Elliott, “Every day, our Help Line receives numerous phone calls expressing the urgent need for housing. While we aim to assist every caller, the demand for housing far exceeds the availability, making it challenging to accommodate everyone. We are thrilled to have been able to help Kirklyn and her family.”

on their backs. Her devotion to her children and sheer determination had carried Kirklyn this far, yet the future was unclear.

“I was stuck on my problems. I couldn’t see the way out,” she says.

Program Coordinator Jenny Hightower gently took charge, breaking down the rebuilding process into clear, actionable steps. Physical needs and a source of income were secured, creating space for mental healing and time to grieve.

“New Beginnings has literally saved all of us. They helped me nd my way,” Kirklyn declares.

Community Relations Manager Jeremy Elliott

Normally, if you spilled water and food all over your paintand-sip canvas, there’d be curse words and cat ghts. Here, under a treetop canopy in Webster, there are squeals of delight. Mostly because the party at fault isn’t your slightly-inebriated friend; it’s a troop of ringtail lemurs wreaking havoc instead. Bushy tails with thirteen alternating black and white stripes swoosh over paint palettes and topple rinse cups, streaking color on canvas and clothing alike.  The more active lemurs leap from canopy to shoulder, down the arm onto the canvas, leaving a trail of footprints.  The smarter ones simply totter on hind legs, station to station, reaching into a plethora of open palms holding a wet assortment of bananas, blueberries, and strawberries.

Chase Animal Sanctuary may be twenty- ve minutes from downtown Clermont, but the drive down State Road 50 to a dirt road is certainly a scenic adventure. Far from the usual fun of wizarding worlds, Painting with

Leaping Lemurs

Painting and pawprints at Chase Animal Santuary.

Good things are always happening in South Lake

Primates is quite possibly the most fun you can have on any given Sunday.

The cost is an $89 “donation,” which allows you to paint a pre-sketched canvas as Chase’s lemur troop weaves and scampers around the yard, and uses your body as a jungle gym. The facility is a rescue mostly for these adorable primates, but there are other exotic animals that have been neglected, abused, and exploited.

Owner Nina Vassallo, who started Chase 17 years ago, operates the facility solely on donations, which can be challenging in any economy. To sustain this passion project, Chase o ers private tours and one-of-a-kind classes like Painting with Primates and the ever-popular Lemur Yoga. It’s philanthropy with a wild twist! You can also book an overnight stay at the Hacienda, become a Keeper for the Day, or simply make a donation to help this sanctuary continue to ourish.

I scream, you scream, we all scream for… bagels! Je ’s Bagel Run is on a roll opening its new Clermont location to raving reviews. Raves are also pouring in for The Bell, an English pub experience in the heart of downtown and Grace O’Malley’s Public House (@GraceOMalleysPub), a neighborhood Irish pub in the old Gra iti Junktion location. If food is your thing, save the date for the South Lake Chamber’s (@ SouthLakeChamberFL) 13th Annual Taste of South Lake on Thursday, November 7th, 2024. A big welcome to Clermont Main Street’s (@ clermontmainstreet) new Interim Executive Director, Natalie Kahler, who brings a wealth of knowledge to the position. Just in time for the upcoming Holiday Event Season. No pressure, Natalie! And last, but not least, a shameless self-plug for your favorite award-winning local magazine. Find copies of The Local at Everything Local (@everythinglocalco) in downtown Clermont, Foxtail Co ee (foxtailco ee.com/clermont) on Highway 27, and Lake-Sumter State College (@lsscsouthlake).

Good news to share?

Send to: heather@emagency.com

Covered By Christ is looking out for those who serve our community.

We serve those who serve is one way Joe Casalese distinguishes his charity, Covered By Christ, from the many out there asking for your money. He puts it this way: “Pastors, first responders, teachers, nurses; all those people chose to serve our community and they’re not exactly making a fortune doing it. When they have something big and expensive crop up like a roof leak, flooded kitchen, fire, they need help. New roofs are expensive.”

Joe should know. A roofing professional for many years, his company often got requests from people in dire need. “Sometimes we could help. Charge less. Get suppliers to donate. Sometimes we had to say no. That bothered me.

“One day I was sitting on my front porch, reading my Bible and inspiration came to me. God spoke to me and said I need you to open a 501C3! Took a while but I got it done. That was in September. Our first family (pictured above) got a new roof in October.

“Lots of folks wonder how they can help and know their contributions are working. Well, Covered By Christ is a mission I’ve taken on that can easily become yours. Please see our website for ways you can donate. Also, join us for Casino Night at the Winter Park Farmer’s Market on Friday, November 1st from 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm! Tickets are $100 per person and include food, auction items and $5000 in Casino Money! Proceeds go to Covered By Christ.”

JOIN US ON FRI, NOV. 1 7:00P.M.-10:30P.M. at the Winter Park Farmer’s Market

Earl and Rebecca Hill, Joe Casalese (back row) Olivia and Walker Hill (kids in front)

Talk to us about one-on-one planning and advice.

Schwab’s modern approach to wealth management means you’ll get personalized guidance to help you create a financial plan and investment strategy tailored to your goals — now, and as they evolve in the future. Your Financial Consultant will work with you one-on-one to help you select the right level of services and even connect you to specialists for more complex needs. Let’s start planning for your success. Get

at schwab.com/clermont

Gina and Jay Hinton’s Once Upon A Child gives gently used kids’ gear a new life while celebrating their Winter Garden roots!

Once upon a family

Once upon a time, Gina and Jay Hinton were sitting at home surrounded by items they’d tried to re-sell on Facebook Marketplace, on Craig’s List, and other places. Having experienced some difficulty, they thought, there must be a better way. “We have two boys, 11 and 13,” Gina says, “and from their baby years on, we amassed a lot of stu as they were growing. Baby clothes, baby furniture, toys, sports equipment, you name it. There was a lot of money taking up room in our garage and attic. And we didn’t have a lot of luck reselling it.”

“Plus, at the time,” Jay says, “we were looking for a business opportunity to stave o inflation. We looked at various industries. We knew we wanted something sustainable, that was good for

the environment, helped people and our community all at the same time. We found Once Upon A Child and it ticked all our boxes.”

It’s not surprising that community was one of the must-haves on the Hinton’s wish list. Community has been a big part of Gina and Jay’s family heritage for decades. Their roots go five generations deep in Winter Garden history.

“My great-grandparents moved to Winter Garden in the 1920s,” says Gina. “My great-grandfather was one of the original citrus pioneers. My family signed the loan documents that helped build the First Baptist Church of Winter Garden. And later, my great aunt was principal of Tildenville Elementary School. My great uncle fought and died in World War II. His name is on a plaque at the Veteran’s Memorial along with Winter Garden’s other soldiers who didn’t make it home. Winter Garden was a much smaller community during WWII.”

Once Upon A Child is a retail store in the Publix center at Highway 50 and Good Homes Road that is focused entirely on gently loved children’s items. Clothing, furniture, cribs, strollers, baby bouncers, toys. Most visitors to Once Upon A Child come into the store to shop. But a good percentage also bring in children’s items of their own they’d like to sell. And that is where the store gets its inventory: from the community to repurpose and give a second life back to the community.

“We found it so di icult to try to sell our things before Once Upon A Child,” Gina said. “People don’t show up. They want everything for pennies. And you don’t know who they are. Who did I just invite to my home? Was Once Upon A Child a little self-serving for me? Maybe, but like Jay said, we are giving back and helping people purchase highquality items for a fraction of what they cost new. We have a children’s stroller in our store right now. I don’t

know how long it’ll last. It cost $1,200 new and we’re selling it for $300! And it’s in pristine condition!”

“I like to think of how much what we resell is staying out of the landfills,” Jay told us. “We’re helping the environment by reducing waste and helping people save money at the same time. When people bring their items in to us, we use a proprietary software program to price them. If they like the price and they choose to sell, we pay them right then and there. They don’t have to wait for their items to sell like in a consignment shop. It’s a great deal all around.”

Mark Your Calendars for September 28!

“We’re having a Re-Grand Opening to introduce ourselves and Once Upon

“…we are giving back and helping people purchase high-quality items for a fraction of what they cost new. ”

A Child to the community,” Gina says. “We’re new owners here and we’re so excited to show o our store. We’ll have loads of fun, too, with Kona Ice; so refreshing on a hot afternoon! There will be face painting, giveaways, a giant Spin the Wheel for prizes and chances at a Free Shopping Spree.”

“You can probably tell how much this means to us,” Jay agrees. “To be able to give something back to this community, especially now. Times are a little di icult. Things are expensive. And it can be a little scary going to a stranger’s house

to buy baby clothes. Moms can shop at Once Upon A Child instead. Have some fun, save some money—and even more important, be safe.”

For more information

8937 W Colonial Dr Ocoee 407-297-9499 onceuponachild.com/locations/ ocoee-fl

(Top) Gina Hinton at (Right) Generations of Gina’s heritage

extra extra

Meet 11 locals who add a little something extra to the ordinary

FRED LOPEZ

career in zookeeping, Ashley found her niche in combining her love for animals with artistic air.

“I’ve always loved the creative side of grooming,” she says, and her distinctive style charms pets and their owners alike.

designs and social media.

So I bought a dog-friendly sample kit and went from there. After that, it just took o .”

One of her favorite canvases is Goldie, a poodle known for sporting whimsical designs. Ashley

laughs, “Goldie’s mom says, ‘Do whatever you want—just make it fun.’”

The results are striking, ranging from tigers to watermelons, and her current creation: a sunset with leopard spots.

Using non-toxic, vegetable-based dyes, Ashley’s creations are as playful as they are pet-friendly. “The dogs seem to love it,” she notes. “They get so many pets and pictures taken.”

Despite some criticism, Ashley’s enthusiasm shines through. “The best part is seeing the client’s reaction. It’s so much fun to see their faces light up.”

With years of building relationships with dogs and their owners, Ashley’s colorful creations are as much about joy and connection as they are about artistry, making every grooming session a delightful adventure.

HEATHER DIAZ

Ashley’s vivid imagination transforms pets into living works of art at Woofgang Bakery’s grooming studio. From candy corn to watermelon, princess pink to Tigger orange—if you can dream it, she can bring it to life!

If there was one moment that stood above all else for Marc Gimbel, it was this:

“We were cycling through the Central Highlands, leaving behind the small town and entering the heart of the co ee plantations. The air was thick with humidity, the kind that clings to your skin and makes every breath feel heavy, but the scenery was beautiful—deep, rich foliage blanketing the rolling hills that stretched endlessly before us. The road was narrow, winding, with water bu alo lazily making their way toward

us and motorbikes buzzing behind. It was one of those long, grueling climbs where every muscle in my thighs and calves burned with the e ort of pedaling.

“Then, without warning, the air was lled with white. At rst, I couldn’t make sense of it—just all this white, swirling around us like snow akes in the middle of summer.”

Butter ies. Thousands of white butter ies. “They were pollinating the co ee plants, I later learned, but in that moment, it felt like something out of a movie. I half expected to see Bambi appear on the side

of the road. But here I was, riding through a snowstorm of white butter ies. It was like ying through a dream. I had never experienced anything like it. It was ... magical.”

“That was my whole experience in Vietnam… So much better than I expected, and certainly better than I remembered,” he says.

Marc Gimbel was just 22 years old when he rst set foot in Vietnam in 1969. As a soldier assigned to the Fourth Infantry Division’s long-range reconnaissance patrol, his mission was to venture deep into enemy territory and gather vital

intelligence. “Every step felt like it could be my last. The danger was constant,” he remembers. “You can have all the training in the world, but you have no idea how you’re going to react when someone shoots at you. I did OK, and that kind of surprised me.”

Still, Vietnam changed him in ways he hadn’t expected. He emerged more con dent, with a newfound determination to carve out his path in the world.

But during his year in Vietnam, Marc never truly saw the country—only the dense, unforgiving jungle.

HEATHER ANNE LEE

NowA curiosity gnawed at him over the years: How did this land, which had such a profound impact on his life, really look? What did it look like now? That question lingered, unanswered, as life moved on.

Last year, a medical scare put things into perspective. After being diagnosed with prostate cancer—and thankfully beating it—Marc felt an urgent need to revisit Vietnam. “I’m not getting any younger. I really wanted to do this. I needed to do it.”

And so, Marc, who had taken up cycling at age 50 and had already pedaled his way across the United States and Europe, decided that a bicycle would be

the Fourth Infantry Division’s webpage, searching for fellow adventurers. The response was mostly skepticism—99% of people thought he was crazy. But then, one message stood out. “I’ve been thinking about doing this for the longest time, and I’m so glad you reached out—I’m in,” it said.

the perfect way to return to Vietnam.

His goal was ambitious: to ride through the Central Highlands, the very region he had patrolled so many years ago. But nding a tour company willing to take him there proved challenging. Most stuck to the well-trodden paths, avoiding the rugged terrain of the Highlands. Undeterred, Marc took matters into his own hands and found a company willing to customize a trip. He found four like-minded individuals in his Winter Garden riding group (shown right), but he needed a few more to round out the trip. So he posted on Facebook and

Turns out Kent Sovern had served in long-range patrols, just like Marc. They had been in the same place at the same time during the war, though they had never met. Going back with him felt like a reunion of sorts, a shared journey back to a place that had shaped them both. For 12 days, this adventurous crew pedaled through the Central Highlands, and every day Marc was struck by how di erent the experience was from his memories. This time, no one was shooting at him. Instead,

locals welcomed him into their homes, stopped him on the street for conversations, and treated him with warmth and curiosity. He nally had the time to truly see Vietnam—the vibrant landscapes, the serene co ee plantations, the bustling towns, and big cities. It was a far cry from the war-torn jungle he remembered.

For Marc, the journey was more than just a physical challenge. It was a chance to close a chapter of his life with a sense of peace and ful llment. “How often do you get the chance to go back to a place that was so important to your life and revisit it under totally di erent circumstances?” he says. The trip allowed him to see Vietnam not as a soldier, but as a traveler, an adventurer, and a man who had come full circle.

“It was the best thing I ever did in my whole life.”

Four Winter Garden cycling enthusiasts joined Marc on the 12-day adventure: Kathy Nurkiewzicz, Margarita Baldo, Alan Sajedi, and Tony Patrone.

(Top Left) Lighted boats float up the river in Hoi An bringing joy to the evening hours, much like a Vietnamese EPCOT. (Top Right) Marc celebrated his 77th birthday with cake and ice cream on the last day of the trip. (Below) An unlikely surprise was the instant connection he felt with Kent Sovern, a fellow veteran from Iowa who served in the same region doing long range patrols.

Watch AARP’s video of Marc’s Heartfelt Return to Vietnam

absolute rockstar. He was a cornerstone of our West Orange community and a beloved Disney musician. His love for life, theme parks, and his infectious

him with me.

My dad and I also shared a deep love for sports, especially our local teams. We were huge fans of the Orlando Magic, Orlando Solar

and moving forward with hope and resilience. As I approached the end of my 10th-grade year, I was determined to nish strong, despite everything. I transi-

sharing my story, I can help others nd the courage and determination to keep moving forward, and that even in the darkest of times, it is still possible to nd light.

DOMINIC GAUDIOUS

Shannon Diaz never expected to be director of anything but her own misery.

And yet, today Shannon leads from the front as Orange County campus director for Matthew’s Hope, a homeless outreach nonpro t based in Winter Garden. She still marvels at the title, given that just a few short years ago she was starting her journey out of drug addiction.

“It was a hopeless, bleak life,” she says.

Shannon, 33, struggled for years with addiction to heroin, which cost her custody of her children and a felony conviction. Her decision to pursue a di erent path led her to a twelve step program and transitional housing through Matthew’s Hope.

Getting clean was a struggle that required

perseverance, but “nothing worth having comes easily,” she says. Physical recovery brought mental healing. The jagged edges of life on the street were worn smooth by her sponsor’s patience and unconditional love. Shannon learned the value of vulnerability and transparency, and reshaped her approach to life.

“I was so stuck on being a victim of my story, versus owning my story,” she says.

Today Shannon embraces her story and uses it to encourage and inspire others. She’s learned acknowledging the pain and struggle carries extra weight when it’s heard by someone with a shared experience. Sometimes that hand up is rejected, and that’s OK, too. Shannon remembers her own resistance to giving up a harmful lifestyle.

“We don’t get to pick the day the message is heard,” she says.

For now, she focuses on what she can change with a newfound optimism and excitement.

“I know I’m going to change lives at Matthew’s Hope, including my own,” she says.

“I know I’m going to change lives at Matthew’s Hope, including my own.”

KYLE MARTIN

EXTRAORDINARY COURAGE

Service is generational for Vincent Ogburn—in more ways than one.

Ocoee’s newest police chief followed the family tradition and joined the U.S. Navy before launching a decades-long law enforcement career that brought him to Ocoee. Today, his children follow in his footsteps with careers in the military, county government, and medicine.

“I am motivated to help people. My parents set that beacon for me,” he says.

The new role takes special signi cance with Vincent becoming the rst black police chief in a city with a history of racial violence. Vincent acknowledges the milestone and its importance, “but I don’t let that be my driving force,” he says.

Ocoee is not immune to Florida’s population boom, and maintaining the sta ng to match the level of service is Vincent’s priority as chief. Handin-hand with that goal

is recruiting talent to a smaller agency.

“I want to create an environment where people want to come to Ocoee to work, live, and play,” he says.

Above all else, he wants people to know that he will be serving them every day.

“I have an open-door policy, not only for my o cers but for the community.

I’ve been in law enforcement for 33 years. My tactics haven’t changed, and I’m not going to change them now.”

KYLE MARTIN

EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE

on becoming a director of photography, Dylan admits, “There’s so much in the lm industry; I’ve barely even scratched the surface. I look forward to harnessing my artistic style and discovering my niche.”

As Dylan embarks on the next chapter of his journey, his optimism is infectious. He eagerly anticipates collaborating with fellow creatives at SCAD and discovering new facets of lmmaking. For Dylan, every frame is an opportunity not just to capture a moment but to inspire and challenge perceptions—an ethos that promises to dene his burgeoning career in the world of cinema.

It was a lazy Sunday in November, and Jess Fitch had claimed her favorite spot on the cozy couch at home. Her best friend, Tori, sat across from her, casually ipping through the latest issue of The Local. The warm hum of casual conversation lled the room, the perfect backdrop for a day of nothing in particular.

Out of the blue, Tori says, “Check this out!

There are some seriously cute guys in here,” she teased, nudging Jess with her elbow. “You should see if any of them are single!”

Curiosity piqued, Jess reached for the magazine and began thumbing through the pages.

“The ‘Gratitude’ themed issue was pretty fun,” Jess remembers, recognizing a

few familiar faces among the glossy pages. “There were a couple of friends and neighbors in there, which was cool … but then I got to page 51, and there was Justin.” She smiled at the memory, “I thought, ‘Oh! He’s cute!’”

In true millennial fashion, Jess didn’t waste a moment. She pulled out her phone and quickly searched for Justin Hodges

on Instagram. With a tap, she hit ‘follow,’ and to her surprise, Justin followed her back almost immediately. A few moments later, her phone buzzed with a message from him, setting o a chain of events that neither of them could have anticipated, but both would remember as the start of something special.

“From her photos and pro le, I could tell Jess had

EXTRAORDINARY LOVE STORY

HEATHER ANNE LEE

a great, bubbly personality—which she totally does,” Justin recalls with a smile. “But what really caught my eye was her pro le photo. It was taken at Prairie House Co ee, one of my favorite spots. So naturally, that’s where I started the conversation. Turns out, we’re both coffee shop enthusiasts.”

For their rst date, Justin suggested they visit the

Winter Garden Farmers

Market the following Saturday, thinking it would be a fun way to spend time together. But Jess wasn’t about to wait that long. “A whole week away? That’s forever!” she teased. So Justin ran with it, saying, “Let’s be spontaneous. How about I take you to one of my favorite coffee shops tomorrow? It’s called Filigree.”

Jess grinned as she recalled the moment. “Filigree is one of my favorites, so I just knew this was a sign. When he showed up, I couldn’t believe it—he was even cuter than I’d imagined, smarter than I’d imagined, and taller too. Here we are, almost 10 months later, and everything about him was better than I ever could have dreamed.”

AronAlex,& Carter

It began with a deceptively simple notion, the sort that seems to emerge only when good co ee and pleasant company are involved: What if 100 men each contributed $100 every quarter? For three locals, the potential was both tantalizing and immense. Two years later, the ripple e ect of more than $80,000 has profoundly impacted 30 community causes and counting.

WG100, a nonpro t founded by Alex Douglas, Aron Hotalen, and Carter

Munroe, is transforming Winter Garden through a straightforward yet powerful model. The idea: Round up 100 men who each contribute $100 quarterly and direct the pooled funds to local nonpro ts.

The idea for WG100 came to Alex Douglas after a meaningful Christmas experience. He wanted to teach his children about the spirit of giving, which led him to local nonpro ts like the Diaper Bank of Central Florida and Eight Waves. “I wanted to create a way to

build awareness and involve people in their communities,” Douglas explains.

Aron Hotalen re ects on their early success: “When we gathered our rst handful of guys at Plant Street Market, the reception wasn’t lukewarm; they were overwhelmingly excited,” he recalls. “I think if we hadn’t ended up launching it, they would have done it without us.”

Carter Munroe acknowledges the initiative’s unexpected success. “WG100 has outpaced my expectations,” he says. “The concept has really hit a nerve

with the guys in this group, showcasing the needs of our community that often go under the radar.”

It’s clear the concept resonates deeply, highlighting often-overlooked community needs.

Now, WG100 is in the midst of expanding its model to two new locations in Florida, Clermont and Parkland,as well as

EXTRAORDINARY MISSION

HEATHER DIAZ

Maryland, North Carolina and Kansas. Douglas says that these expansions are driven by local interest and a commitment to community causes. “If we can take

this model nationwide and help other communities, that would be amazing— what a cool thing to look back and say, it all started in Winter Garden!”

In essence, WG100 is more than just a funding mechanism; it’s a community-building e ort that fosters connections and a spirit of giving. Its

growth promises to amplify its positive impact, proving that collective action can indeed be a driver of extraordinary change.

Seamless Ser ice

Streamline your home improvement experience with Viewpoint’s 24/7 Concierge Service.

You’ve met with our Viewpoint design team. Made design decisions. Paid a deposit. You’re excited, probably a bit impatient, and you’re thinking—now what? Now is the time Viewpoint Concierge Service really begins to shine. And it all begins with transparency.

To start, you will be given private access to your very own job portal through a robust software program called Builder Trend. It is your 24-hour-a-day connection to everything that’s hap-

pening on your job. You’ll see the scheduling. Delivery dates. You can review project details you may have forgotten. Look over pictures of how your job is progressing.

You’ll also be given key points of contact with actual human beings. Your Project Coordinator is in charge of all things scheduling. Your Field Manager is the “face” of your job and in charge on site. When you have questions, and you will, it comes with the job, those two key contacts will have the answers. You’ll be able

to communicate with them through your private portal any time of day.

We have a passion and a commitment to go above and beyond, to exceed expectations on every job. We prove that passion by performing at a higher level and providing a higher level of service. We call it Concierge Service because it is all about you. It’s open, transparent, and designed to cater to your individual needs on your one-ofa-kind, home improvement project.

When there are questions, these local pros have the answers.

EXPERTS

QRon Cervantes, owner of C Solutions IT answers this way: “Basically, there are two types of people out there. Those who run their PCs until they break. And those who run their systems in such a way that they won’t break. They plan, do the upgrades, add the storage. We help everyone, but we prefer that second type.

“Often, we’ll go out on a job for a performance issue. We address that, of course. But we also get to look at what they’re dealing with system-wise. People often

don’t know what they don’t know. We answer their questions, make suggestions, run the numbers for them. Many of those clients become regular customers when we show them how their IT systems could become more reliable by signing up for one of our managed plans.

“On a managed plan, we actively monitor their computers; keeping their systems up-to-date and running at optimum performance. We protect them from viruses, breakdowns, data losses.

We monitor compliance requirements where that is a concern and deploy a whole stack of security tools—anti-virus, DNS filtering, Zero Trust Solutions. We also provide vendor management; keeping track of all those pesky licenses, passwords, storage and more.

“When the time comes that your company’s grown too big to self-service your IT, or you spend time on it better spent on core business concerns, it’s time to call someone. Like me.”

PRIMARY CARE

Roshni

Graydus

Apex Health Direct Primary Care 835 7th Street Suite 3, Clermont 352-717-4929

apexhealthdpc.com

Have your own questions? Ask the Expert!

QWhat should you look for in a healthcare provider?

Find one who will spend time to listen. Roshni Graydus, owner of Apex Health Direct Primary Care, has been listening since 2018.

“It ultimately comes down to that,” she says. “PCPs in clinics have many patients and little time to really listen. So, I structured Apex Health to be di erent; to give me the time that complete healthcare really requires.”

Apex Health DPC uses a concierge medicine model. “We have the luxury of discussing all of your needs in one appointment.

Whereas, in a traditional clinic, you would need to make an appointment for each concern. With this model, patients have direct access to our phone, so they feel empowered about their health and can avoid unnecessary urgent care visits.

“Our goal is to be proactive rather than reactive, which involves thoroughly examining of all your lab results to uncover the underlying causes of health concerns, focusing on long-term wellness rather than just treating symp-

“…I structured Apex Health to be di erent; to give me the time that complete healthcare really requires.”

toms as they arise.

“Have you gone to your healthcare clinic only to have a fifteen minute examination? The providers are overbooked and patients are dissatisfied. That doesn’t happen at Apex Health DPC.

“I get to know my patients. I only prescribe medications when necessary. The bottom line is: I have the time to treat them medically and holistically. And yes, I can even make house calls. I call it healthcare on your time. If that sounds right to you, call me.”

QWhat makes a commercial building expert?

“At Boyer Building Corp. we start with understanding the client, what their business entails, their energy requirements, how we can optimize their business workflow,” says Gary Boyer, President of Boyer Building Corporation.

“Every Boyer employee learns what we call the ‘Boyer Standard,’ a commitment to excellence that is at the heart of everything we do. Our mantra, ‘If it’s not perfect, it’s not done,’ drives every project and interaction. From the first consultation to the final touches, our

clients experience unmatched attention to detail and a focus on delivering the highest quality work.

The Boyer Standard isn’t just a goal—it’s a promise that shows up in our designs, our craftsmanship, and the way we engage with each customer. It’s this relentless pursuit of perfection that sets us apart and creates spaces that truly inspire.

“Some of our landmark projects include a stateof-the-art HyCube, a modular hydroponic vegetable production system for the world’s largest Marriott.

Right here in our neighborhood is a Class-A o ice space that stands out from the rest. The Park at 429 is a 50,000 sq ft two-story building that hosts eight diverse tenants ranging from technology, real estate investment to commercial construction businesses and custom home builders.

“At Boyer, thoughtful design is a key part of our process. With safety as our top priority, our buildings feature wider hallways, higher ceilings, and taller doors. The result is a building that not only performs better but feels better. Step inside and experience the Boyer di erence for yourself.”

Paul Rienzi

Headquarter Honda

17700 State Rte 50, Clermont 407-395-7500 headquarterhonda.com

Have your own questions? Ask the Expert!

QWho is the Clermont Car Guy?

years, accompanied him. They were so impressed with the place that Paul bought a car that day. The feelings went both ways. So much so that the Honda folks o ered Paul’s father a job. He was retired and declined but said, “You should hire my son. He has a great personality. He’d be perfect for it.”

They did and he was. Today, fourteen years later, he is the new car sales

seen the highway expand to six lanes and watched Clermont grow up around us. I live two miles from the home I grew up in.

“From the very beginning, I felt something. The building here was beautiful. The people were all nice, with smiles on their faces. Everyone was positive. That sold me then. And I know it sells people now. The culture at Headquarter Honda is amazing.

“They know us and we know them. We’re more than just car people. We’re community people.

and be real. Clermont has responded in a big way. They know us and we know them. We’re more than just car people. We’re community people. Most of us could be your tour guide on a test drive. People know me by now. I go to Target and stop my cart at least three times to talk to people. They call me The Clermont Car Guy. But I just call myself lucky.”

QHow important is my retainer?

“Most people are probably familiar with the term retainers. As the name suggests, retainers are orthodontic devices designed to keep teeth in place—retain them—after orthodontic treatment. In most cases, they do not “move” teeth. Instead, they hold them in place.

“The time immediately after treatment is the most critical. Teeth always want to move back to their original positions. All the gum fibers and bone that helped move your teeth take time to stabilize, and that time is

an average of six months. However, there is always a risk of teeth shifting, so retainers are a lifetime commitment.

“Patients typically receive retainers for the upper and lower arches because most have undergone comprehensive treatment.

“There are several types of retainers. An Essix retainer looks like a clear tray, similar to Invisalign. Patients favor these due to their comfort and invisibility.

The Hawley retainer uses a familiar acrylic and wire design. It is often preferred

“The time immediately after treatment is the most critical. Teeth always want to move back to their original positions.”

with initial deep bites or cross bites.

“My practice, Artful Orthodontics is completely digital. This allows for a patient’s records to be stored long-term and easily used to replace old or lost retainers. In fact, many of our patients join our “retainer subscription program” to reduce replacements costs and save time, having their retainers shipped directly to them to avoid an o ice visit.”

“At the end of the day, the best retainer is one patients will actually wear!”

Have your own questions? Ask the Expert!

QWhat the heck is an inverted yield curve?

Imagine you’re lending money. You’d expect more bucks back for a longer loan, right? Well, an inverted yield curve flips that logic. Short-term loans pay out more than long-term ones! It’s the market’s way of saying, “We’re not feeling too hot about the future.”

Look Back and Learn

2001: The tech bubble “popped” and despite the Federal Reserve cutting interest rates, the inverted yield curve had already foreshadowed the coming financial crisis.

2008: Remember the housing mess and disastrous financial meltdown? Once more, the yield curve saw it coming.

2019: The yield curve hinted at market unease once again, though the resulting stock market fluctuations were milder compared to the previous incidents.

The inverted yield curve is often viewed as a strong indicator that the economy could be getting ready to throw a fit. Subsequent Fed rate cuts aim to stabilize, but investors often

interpret these cuts as a sign of economic weakness that can result in market disquiet.

Will it be di erent this time?

The current scenario presents a yield curve that’s more steeply inverted than any we’ve seen in over two decades. Today’s inverted yield curve may mean investors are expecting less-thanstellar times ahead. It’s like everyone’s bracing for a storm, and the market’s the barometer.

So, what’s the verdict?

It would be wise to expect some market volatility. Stocks might swing like a pendulum as traders try to read the tea leaves. But remember, the market’s got a mind of its own. Sometimes, it likes to prove the predictors wrong.

CATERING EXPERTS

Chefs

Britt & Colon Robles

Mouthfeel

Clermont

352-782-6378

mouthfeelllc.com

Have your own questions?

Ask the Expert!

Q

How does food set the mood?

Britt Robles, chef and co-owner with husband Colon, of Mouthfeel, a luxury catering company, turns the tables on traditional catering. She is very clear about what sets them apart.

“Food sets the mood at our events. Every menu we create helps us tell a story. As you taste, you have an experience.

What is the purpose of the event? Is it a celebration? A garden party? A luxurious gala? Or a corporate event? It is our job at Mouthfeel to

“Food sets the mood at our events. Every bite we create helps us tell a story. As you taste, you have an experience.”

provide the perfect bite that compliments the atmosphere. We are two chefs, working in sync, planning every item on the menu down to the tiniest details.

“We create grazing tables of artfully arranged culinary masterpieces—all of them bite-sized. Why? We want people to engage with one another, to walk and to talk. Our “bites” give the event better flow, better pacing. Our events are more like social cocktail parties where the food just happens to be the

star. I like to say that we are culinary conductors, using our skills to bring people and food together in a delicious crescendo. Our primary focus is to provide an experience like no other.

“I especially like how what we do makes people feel so special. We recently catered a bridal shower and afterwards, the brideto-be was beaming, and she immediately hugged me. The joy on her face is why we do what we do. And that makes me happy!”

QWhat makes Mouthfeel a unique catering company?

Colon Robles, chef and co-owner of Mouthfeel with wife Britt, describes their luxury catering company as a catering industry disrupter.

“First of all, we don’t do bu ets. We focus on the social aspects. Everything is bite-sized for a reason. We’re going for “mouthfeel” and not mouthful. Our food is always fresh; never anything frozen, fried, or pre-packaged. When you think of it, that eliminates 90% of our competition right there. So, yeah, we

are disrupting the catering business. That’s what Britt and I wanted to do when we started Mouthfeel. That’s what we do now.

“We bring the experience of two chefs’ creativity, and expertise to every event we cater, large or small. I mean, the power behind that professionalism is tremendous. As chefs, we focus on every minute detail from curation to presentation to flavor. How we fold the meats, cut the cheeses, arrange our food presentations

on our locally sourced, cedar grazing tables—it all matters. We make a layout and design of every table beforehand until it works seamlessly. Anything depends on everything.

“What we create becomes a showpiece at every event. It’s edible entertainment. Our guests sometimes tell us that they don’t want to disturb the beautiful display, but we say, “Please. Enjoy It!” Our Snickerdoodle cheesecake bombs and Vietnamese shrimp cocktails are to die for.”

QHow can I make my business more profitable?

“That’s the million dollar question, right?” Rachel Siegel says with a smile. The owner of Go Figure Accounting and author of Profit First for Optometrists knows a thing or two about profit.

“Most business owners learn to operate using the conventional formula of Sales – Expenses = Profit. In that scenario, profit is what’s left over. We use instead what’s called Profit First, a methodology that prioritizes profit from the outset: Sales – Profit = Expenses.”

By using this method, you’re not just hoping for profit—you’re guaranteeing it.

This subtle shift forces business owners to put profit at the forefront, making it a non-negotiable part of every financial decision. The process is straightforward but powerful: set up separate bank accounts for profit, taxes, operating expenses, and owner’s pay. When revenue arrives, allocate a percentage to each account based on predetermined targets, ensuring you’re not just hoping for profit—you’re guaranteeing it.

“Profit First also imposes healthy discipline

on your spending. With a limited amount available for operating expenses, you’re naturally inclined to scrutinize every dollar spent. This helps curb the temptation to dip into funds reserved for taxes or profit, reducing financial stress and surprises,” says Rachel.

“By prioritizing profit, you build a stronger, more resilient business that can weather economic downturns and invest in future growth, providing a clear, actionable path to long-term profitability and success.”

ASSISTED LIVING

Rebecca

The Blake at Hamlin

4814 Hamlin Grove Trail, Winter Garden

407-663-0100 blakeliving.com/communities/hamlin

Have your own questions? Ask the Expert!

QHow do I choose assisted living that is the best fit for my loved one?

“Start with the person you’re looking for. After nearly 25 years in the industry,” says Rebecca Root, Executive Director for The Blake at Hamlin, “that may be the most di icult piece of advice I can o er. Keep yourself out of the equation as best you can and think about the person who will be staying. What are their needs and wants? Do they have medical needs? What level of care will they require?

“Also, compare apples to apples. Make a list of questions and ask the same

questions of everyone. If, one or two visits in, you come across something you forgot to ask in the early stages, call them up and ask it!

“Here are some of the top questions I that should be on your list, in no particular order: Is there transportation? Are you pet friendly? Ratio of care providers to residents? Who provides meds and what is their training? What’s security like? How many sta in the building at a given time? And food! Always a

“Compare apples to apples. Make a list of questions and ask the same questions of everyone.”

big concern. Take a meal when you take your tour if possible.

Finally, start your research early. Don’t wait until it’s an emergency and you’re forced to make a quick decision. Also, visit your top contenders twice. Schedule a tour. Then go back a second time, unannounced, preferably during mealtime. They’ll be busiest then. You’ll see firsthand how the sta and residents interact with one another—and you’ll get a feeling. That feeling is how you’ll decide.”

Will you make me quack like a duck?!?

“I get asked those kinds of questions all the time,” says Kellie Smith, owner of Winter Garden Hypnosis. “And I always give the same answer with a smile: Not unless you want to. People are attracted to hypnosis because they need a new way to learn. They might start out worried about deep dark secrets or giving up control but what hypnosis really does is give people more control of themselves. Many people are struggling between wanting things to be di erent

but also not knowing how to change, with their best e orts keeping them stuck where they have been for decades. When learning hypnosis, they use their own mind and imagination power—a good imagination is key, by the way—to create change. Hypnosis causes changes to happen in the imagination and sensory parts of the brain. What they used to believe was hard for them to do, even if they thought it was hard for decades, now becomes easy for them. Today, we can

dissolve those old beliefs and that gives them more control of their future choices and behavior than they have ever had before.

“Hypnosis is a powerful tool that works well on a whole host of concerns. It could be issues with weight, smoking, stress, communication skills, even pain management. With hundreds of documented case results like clients losing up to 65 pounds or 50year smokers quitting instantly, the proof is in the stories of real people

with real results. This works especially well for weight loss. Think about it. Hypnosis is all natural. There are no diets to follow. No drugs to ingest or inject. You learn to like fruits and vegetables. When you’re full, you know it and don’t overindulge. You actually crave exercise. Imagine that!

“Start with a free screening to see if you might be a candidate. It’s absolutely free. You receive a stick-with-you guarantee. And it could just change your life!”

Robert Collins

Blue Dream Pools

1220 Winter Garden Vineland Rd. Suite 100, Winter Garden 407-905-2704 bluedreampools.com

Have your own questions? Ask the Expert!

QHow do you choose the right pool builder?

Robert Collins, owner of Blue Dream Pools, has a simple answer: “Ask them how long they’ve been in business. If they won’t tell you, it’s not long enough. I grew up building pools with my dad, who owned Blue Dream Pools with his business partner, Dan Lewis. From high school, on, I had the best on-the-job training you can get.

“We o er a Free Consultation for folks interested in a new pool. Some pool companies charge for that—up to $2500!— then they keep your money if

you change your mind.

We’re also the only builder we know of that doesn’t ask for a deposit to start with. Blue Dream won’t charge a dime until we break ground.

“A pool is the largest investment most people will ever make on their home, and customers are wise to do their homework.

don’t run gimmicky specials. We make our customers comfortable from design to finish without surprises. We never even raised prices during COVID. The prices we quoted then, stayed true.

Many pool ads claim ‘On Sale For The Summer’ or ‘Special Price This Week Only.’ Or, they put a photo of a $100,000 pool in an ad for ‘Pools from $35,000!’

“We build the best quality pool at the best price and

“Blue Dream simply builds the best quality pool at the best price.

“Ours is a generational company and we’re proud of that. We have had multiple customers who’ve come back to us. Everything from a ‘spool’—a smaller, spa/pool combo—to complete backyard transformations with resort-style landscaping.

“Come talk to us. It’ll be the best money you never spent.”

Robert Collins with father, Robert.

Lake Nona Wave Hotel, where luxurious amenities, cutting-edge technology, and world-class art create an unforgettable retreat just around the corner.

Staycation Paradise

Be minutes from home and feel worlds away in a stay at a luxurious hotel unlike any other.

Lake Nona Wave Hotel gathers up all the unique aspects of the Lake Nona community—technology, art, fine dining and commitment to wellness—and presents them in world class fashion under a single roof.

Visitors to Wave know they’re in for a unique experience from the moment they step into the hotel’s “Living Room” lobby. At Wave, 300+ pieces of art are on display in this space, each selected to raise a smile, or an eybrow. It’s physical, digital, and dynamic and creates quite a welcome. The kinetic chandelier is a shining example— it raises, lowers, and changes colors at random in a fascinating artistic interplay.

James Tattersall, Director of Sales and Marketing, describes Lake Nona Wave Hotel by its four pillars: art, wellness, dining, and technology. “We bring all those together in this amazing hotel to create a singular experience that reflects the unique community of Lake Nona.

“Science and technology helped define Lake Nona and we’ve embraced that throughout the hotel. Every luxurious room comes with its own iPad (and a mobile Wave Hotel app) that guests can use to control the lights, temperature, TV, drapes, and even order breakfast in bed! Stay with us and adjust the room how you like it. Dim the lights, set the drapes, fix room temperature to seventy degrees, and turn on CNN. After you check out, the room resets but Wave Hotel remembers. Come back next year and you can pick right up where you left o . Our most talked about tech are the in-room Toto toilets that greet you with bidet features.

“Art surrounds us at Wave Hotel, with each piece curated for its ability to get you to think, to smile, to wonder. The Sculpture Garden out back is thirty thousand square feet with sculptures that are fifteen to twenty feet tall, over three hundred palm trees, Artico Di Modica’s famous Charging Bull (of Wall Street fame), complimentary yoga on Saturday mornings, and more.

“Wave fine dining starts withBACÁN. One of Orlando’s few Michelin-recommended restaurants, it showcases cuisine inspired by the flavors of Latin America. HAVEN Kitchen features all day dining. And Nami, our newest inspiration, features Japanese cuisine with European elements.

“Lake Nona Performance Club anchors our wellness pillar with an extensive cardio and resistance floor, a huge rock climbing wall, aquatic center, over 150 fitness classes a week, and Deepak Chopra Mind Body sessions. We have over forty miles of trails to explore for hiking, jogging and biking. Bikes are complimentary of course.

“And of course, there is Lake Nona itself with its own restaurants, shops, and attractions. Take a Beep driverless shuttle and explore at your leisure. There is much to see and do at Wave Hotel. It’s an adult-oriented experience worthy of its description: a staycation

guests will want to revisit time and again. Even “worthier?” Florida residents save 15% on their stays!”

For more information

6100 Wave Hotel Drive

407-675-2000

lakenonawavehotel.com

Savor the Magic

Six weeks. Three courses. Two prices. One great cause.

HEATHER ANNE LEE FRED LOPEZ

Tucked into Winter Garden’s charming historic district sits Market to Table, a small, intimate restaurant that buzzes with romantic date night energy and culinary prowess. The food re ects Chef-owner Ryan Freelove’s dedication to seasonal, locally inspired

ingredients and creative twists on familiar classics.

The space is as inviting as it is stylish, featuring a full-service bar shaking up handcrafted cocktails, and a covered outdoor patio ideal for al fresco dining. And this year, Market to Table is proudly participating in Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining, o ering

a $40 prix- xe menu that highlights Freelove’s innovative approach to American cuisine. Paired with expertly crafted cocktails, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy the best of this neighborhood gem at an exceptional value. Magical Dining features 150 restaurants

o ering a three-course, prix- xe meal for either $40 or $60 a person, plus tax and gratuity, bene tting The Mustard Seed of Central Florida.Besides Market to Table, consider supporting these local favorites: Back Room Steakhouse,Bella Tuscany, Bosphorous, Chef’s Table, and Gyu-Kaku.

Clocked Out

One local’s hot take on a proposed city ordinance.

Iam a lot of things. I’m a writer. A foodie. A lifelong Winter Garden resident. A patron of local business. A hospitality worker. A concerned citizen.

I have spent the last 12 years employed at three separate businesses on Plant Street, watching the exponential growth of the area and providing service to the smiling faces who enter the door each day.

In my free time, I often dine at local restaurants and secretly wish for more options. When I clock out in the evening, I happily support our local businesses—the ones that are still open, anyway—and am

always happy to run into friends and neighbors.

So, you can imagine my surprise when word spread of a proposed city ordinance that not only de nes what a restaurant is and how it should operate, but also limits the hours of operation in an e ort to keep historic Winter Garden “family friendly.”

If you aren’t familiar with the proposal, you’re not alone. As of today, August 20th, there’s not much information regarding the document. In fact, it takes very little sleuthing to discover that nothing has been posted on the City’s website, and

even the local newspaper has been silent on the topic. And yet the few copies circulating among local businesses, restaurants in particular, have owners positively buzzing.

Here’s what I can tell you: For an ordinance to become a law in Winter Garden, it must be read to the public twice at City Commission meetings. Since that hasn’t happened yet, this ordinance is still in its drafting stage, meaning it could still change.

That said, the copy I have centers around proposed regulations for each category of new and existing businesses that sell alcoholic beverages. For

restaurants interested in coming to downtown, the draft I have speci cally details what “ ne dining” entails from white linens to employee dress code. The language also places speci c restrictions on different alcohol licenses.

And then there is the matter that is most concerning to a night owl like myself: the restrictions on the hours to which new and existing restaurants may serve alcohol. This ordinance wouldn’t allow restaurants and bars in the downtown proximity to serve alcohol until 11am and then be forced to close their doors at 11 pm on weekdays and 12 am on

TARIN SCARBROUGH

JOSH CLARK

weekends; earlier if their kitchens stop serving food.

The reasoning behind this amendment is as follows: “…the city nds that the sales, serving and/ or consumption of alcohol within the Historic Downtown District and surrounding areas after midnight gives rise to a number of negative e ects including to the loud behavior of patrons, the shift in patronage from shopping, dining, and family entertainment to purchasing and consuming alcohol, requiring the city to expend increased resources upon law enforcement,

alcohol license, the language implies that only

ne dining establishments will be considered for wine or liquor licenses in the future. It doesn’t seem to leave room for non-American dining that doesn’t quite t the standards of the criteria set. Will this dissuade more cultural cuisine from setting roots here?

Another stipulation states a restaurant must serve food for the entire duration of their alcohol operations. Most restaurants close due to lack of tra c and shut down to avoid labor and food costs. If there’s no demand, why force a

Also worth noting: While the city is working to represent a “family-friendly focus,” this ordinance gives no mind to a large group of citizens and visitors with disposable income—those who don’t t into this depiction of “families.”

We as a city have turned into quite a melting pot, de ned by people of all di erent socioeconomic backgrounds with alternative occupations and living conditions. While it may feel like a minority to our City Commission, there are an overwhelming number of citizens who keep later hours and already feel sti-

hours, when those families with kids, who have enjoyed their sunset entertainment, are long gone by 10 pm? Are two-income couples not a family? What about families with grown kids? Parents on a date night? Single professional adults who own homes in Winter Garden? And what about those locals who work into the late evening, but live in Winter Garden… Are their needs not a concern?

As a fellow patron, I can attest that a large group in the late night hours are the employees who work at the businesses on the street. Becky says, “The sta at

The beauty of a diverse community is that it offers options that appeal to many types of people.

and creating an environment inconsistent with a family-oriented focus.”

As a reader, you may feel that this won’t a ect you. Maybe you don’t eat or drink after 9 pm, and that’s ne! But, it’s my humble opinion that this proposal sets a bad precedent far beyond the hours a restaurant can operate.

Let me explain.

Some of the conditions of the ordinance regarding restaurants certainly raise an eyebrow. While it is necessary to de ne the type of restaurant to quantify an

restaurant kitchen to stay open? Generally, restaurants inherently make a much larger pro t margin on alcohol than they do food. These businesses are already dealing with high overhead (high rent costs and renovations to old buildings), not to mention rising food costs. Inevitably prices will have to increase to o set the increased costs, and without alcohol sales to o set those expenses, the very same families this ordinance insists it is serving will be left paying an increasingly hefty price.

ed by the limited options available to them.

Becky Roper, the owner of Pilar’s Martini Bar and curator of late-night entertainment in downtown Winter Garden, says it best: “The beauty of a diverse community is that it o ers options that appeal to many types of people. You won’t catch me at a 7 am breakfast place, but you will nd me out listening to music or with friends at midnight.”

I’m left wondering: How are “families” a ected by the current alcoholic consumption in the late-night

Pilars is my primary concern, but also the rest of the employees on Plant Street. These people serve the “families” all day long, and then come here after work to enjoy themselves. It makes me so sad.”

Stipulations on operational hours, from an economic standpoint, will have both short-term and long-term e ects. Initially, only some businesses will be hurt by this choice. Those that serve alcoholic beverages in the daytime, such as mimosas or bloody mary’s, won’t be allowed

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12323 West Colonial Drive, Suite 140 Winter Garden, FL 34787

12323 West Colonial Drive, Suite 140 Winter Garden, FL 34787

to serve until several hours into their breakfast or brunch service. Those that serve into the late hours without a kitchen will be forced to close. And, the few places left will be forced to close early if their kitchens can’t maintain the 51% food-to-alcohol sales ratio. With fewer options for evening and late night entertainment, the charm of our historic downtown will lose its luster, and who will that a ect most?

The very same businesses that the City wants to have downtown to ll those expensive storefronts, and the employees that those businesses rely on to sta them.Ultimately, these impediments will cut into total sales and employees will lose income, whether that is fewer hours on the clock or diminishing tips.

From a business owner perspective, one thing is true: While most pro ts aren’t made in late night hours, they are made in the prime hours leading up. Jason Anderson, who just recently purchased Tony’s Liquor in 2023, agrees. He states in the original purchase of Tony’s, the ability to extend Tony’s evening hours (compared to the previous owner) to improve the business served as a selling point for the purchase. With this proposed ordinance,

Tony’s could experience a loss in pro ts and potentially attendance.

It’s easy to get caught up in the minutiae, but when I step back to look at the big picture, the “what ifs” seem to weigh more heavily. What if patrons, familiar with these limitations, decide to spend their money in Clermont or Hamlin or Winter Park instead? What if, with fewer or limited dining options, fewer people decide to visit Winter Garden and every business starts to lose? What if employees lose precious income and nd more lucrative jobs in more openminded locales? What if existing businesses can no longer pay the high rents associated with “historic downtown” addresses?

After speaking to an overwhelming number of business owners and vetted residents in the process of gaining information and insight into this proposed ordinance, compromise seems to be the only answer. The good news is that because this proposal hasn’t been publically noticed,there’s still time to negotiate with the City leaders to amend the ordinance in favor of all parties involved, not just the interest of one particular group. So, how do we do that? Start by sharing your concerns with your City

Commissioners. Call or email them.Better yet, attend a Commission Meeting.

You’ll see me there because I believe this ordinance is backpedaling into a temperance movement way too 18th century for

my liking. I implore you to stand for freedom of choice and allow all citizens as well as business owners, potential or current, the right to enjoy the beauty of this city when they want, with or without a beverage in hand.

Questions? Ask your representatives

City Commission Meetings Thu, Sep. 12 Thu, Sep. 26

Thu, Oct. 10 Thu, Oct. 24 6:30pm

300 W Plant Street Winter Garden, FL 34787

Mayor

John Rees, District 5 - Citywide 407.656.7372 • jrees@cwgdn.com

Commissioners

Lisa L. Bennett, District 1, Mayor Pro-Tem 407.877.5131 • lisa.bennett@cwgdn.com

Iliana R. Jones, District 2 407.877.5132 • Iliana.jones@cwgdn.com

Chloe Johnson, District 3 407.877.5133 • chloe.johnson@cwgdn.com

Colin Sharman, District 4 407.877.5134 • csharman@cwgdn.com

City Manager

Jon C. Williams

407.656.4111 ext. 2267 • jwilliams@cwgdn.com

Dining Guide

Cilantro Indian Cuisine

360 West Plant St, Ste 103, Winter Garden 407-395-3400 / cilantrowg.com

“Oh, I don’t like Indian,” you might be saying. “I can’t do spicy food.” But true Indian cuisine is about so much more than spice, and Cilantro is here to prove it. Every entree on Cilantro’s diverse menu can be served mild (as well as medium, hot, and Indian hot), with your choice of meat and a wide selection of vegetarian options. Savor the warmth and richness of Indian cuisine, as mild or as spicy as you like it.

Daniel’s Cheesesteak Express

793 W Montrose St, Clermont 352-933-3136 / danielscheesesteaks.com

As the home of award-winning wings and the #1 cheesesteak in town, nine years and counting, Daniel’s Cheesesteak House does exactly what it says. Established in Winter Garden more than 30 years ago, there’s no better place to go for a perfectly melty cheesesteak—except the new Clermont location.

11a-3p / 4:30-9p

Happy Hour

11a-3p / 4:30-9p 11a-3p / 4:30-9p 11a-3p / 4:30-9p 11a-3p / 4:30-9p 11a-3p / 4:30-9p Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Hours Tue All Day Wed+Fri 4:30-6:30p See website for details

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Gochi Japanese Kitchen

14195 W. Colonial Dr., Winter Garden 407-877-0050 / gochijapanesekitchen.com

Since 2007, Gochi Japanese Kitchen has been providing the highest-quality Japanese favorites. Raw a la carte options like nigiri, sashimi, and rolls, plus uniquely crafted noodles, yakiniku and yakiyasai bbq grill options. Need space for a special event? Ask about our private dining room and catering options!

Ispirazione

Italian Sandwiches

1711 Amazing Way Ste 107, Ocoee 407-988-9499 / ispirazionesandwiches.com

10a-7p

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5-9p 5-9p

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Taste the di erence! Ispirazione sandwich shop specializes in tigelles, baking the bread and slicing the meats right when you order. Fresh, quality ingredients make each sandwich a masterpiece of avor. Let Ispirazione be your guide to an authentic Italian culinary journey.

Market To Table

146 W Plant St, Winter Garden 407-395-9871 / market2table.com

Nestled in the heart of Historic Downtown, Market To Table creates modern American cuisine with classical in uences. Chef/Owner Ryan Freelove’s seasonal dinner menu o ers a delightful mix of traditional dishes, like let mignon or braised short rib, along with an exciting array of specials. The upstairs private dining rooms o er wine pairing and tasting events throughout the year.

Taste I Dining Guide

Mouthfeel

352-782-6378 / mouthfeelllc.com

Voted Best Caterer, Best Tapas, Best Chef: Chef Britt, Best Sushi: Chef Colon, in Lake County Reader’s Choice Awards 2024. Our meticulous craftsmanship and fresh, exquisite ingredients ensure an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. Specializing in grand grazing tables, luxurious hors d’oeuvres, and decadent desserts, we elevate your events with style and avor. Our Passion, Your Experience.

Pammie’s Sammies

121 S. Boyd St, Winter Garden 407-730-3212 / pammiesammies.com

Feed the Soul. Craft with Love. Serve from the Heart. That’s the record-setting recipe behind Pammie’s Sammies, a fun sandwich space with funk woven into its atmosphere and baked into every dish. With food that is thoughtfully sourced, earth-friendly, and tastefully adventurous, our menu pairs old family recipes with tasty trends, all to the soundtrack of classic tunes and conversation among friends.

Peach Cobbler Factory

13848 Tilden Rd Suite 172, Winter Garden peachcobblerfactory.com

Mouthfeel

11a-7p 11a-7p 11a-7p 11a-7p 11a-8p 10a-7p Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Hours Home of Boyd Street Radio

It’s a classic dessert dilemma: no one can agree. Your son wants brownies. Your daughter wants pudding. And you, you’re craving a fresh cobbler with ice cream. Good thing you can get it all under one roof! Satisfy every sweet tooth with cinnamon rolls, puddings, cookies, churro sticks, wa es and so much more — while you get our 12 varieties of warm, delicious cobbler all to yourself. Dessert is solved!

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Hours

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Poke by Gochi

13770 W. Colonial Dr., Winter Garden 407-347-5091 / pokebygochi.com

Poke is the bowl of the moment, and no one does it better than Gochi. This fast casual concept by the owners of Gochi Japanese Kitchen uses all the same, high quality ingredients as its sister location, only in a one-bowl concept. Choose from chef crafted options or customize your own with a variety of colorful sauces, piles of crunchy toppings, and a white rice, brown rice, or lettuce base.

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Roasted Spirit

756 West Montrose St., Clermont 321-376-5004 / theroastedspirit.com

With a long day behind you and spirits still high, you must be in the mood for a drink. The fresh, innovative craft cocktails prepared by master bartenders at Roasted Spirit feature in-house specialty bitters, syrups and juices. Come in to enjoy live music, from-scratch small plates, and Clermont’s largest selection of sipping spirits.

Schweini’s Delicatessen

108 S Main St, Winter Garden 407-395-3235 / schweinis-deli.com

The mission of Schweini’s Deli is to make your belly happy by lling it with authentic German beers and hot sandwiches piled high with the best meats. With only the freshest locally sourced ingredients, including house-made cheesecakes, Schweini’s invites you to come in, stay awhile, maybe watch the latest soccer match — and get your fröhlicher bauch on.

Taste I Dining Guide

STK Steakhouse

1580 Buena Vista Drive, Orlando 407-917-7440

stksteakhouse.com/venues/orlando

STK is “not your daddy’s steakhouse”—it’s a highenergy ne dining experience, where delectable cuisine and upscale cocktails meet chic décor and an in-house DJ. The menu features reimagined classic American cuisine for lunch, brunch and dinner, with traceable, ethically sourced beef that produces quality craveable steaks.

Thai Blossom

99 W. Plant St., Winter Garden 407-905-9917 / mythaiblossom.com

Your love of Thai will blossom among fragrant curries, silky noodles, stir fries, and grilled meats. Authentic, avorful and always cooked to order Thai Blossom o ers some of the tastiest cuisine in central Florida, right on Plant Street. And plenty of options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals make it the perfect choice for workday lunch, dinner dates, and special celebrations.

The Whiskey

7563 W Sand Lake Rd, Orlando 407-930-6517 / downatthewhiskey.com

Bourbon and rock and roll is a match made at The Whiskey! Pair a classy atmosphere featuring live music every night with one of our 970 brands of whiskey. Then pair all that with one of our top-tier, change-your-life burgers. The Whiskey Burger is a top seller, along with the Salty Pear (an eight ounce patty with bourbon-poached pear and brie mornay sauce)!

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Innovation Meets

Meets Tradition

Foundation Academy, an esteemed institution dedicated to partnering with families and the church, is on the cusp of a transformative journey.

Foundation Academy is redefining the future of education with a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Imagine a school where a Christcentered approach meets cutting-edge teaching strategies, creating an exceptional learning environment. How does this vision become reality? It starts with a dedicated team and forward-thinking initiatives.

Dr. Audrey Lee, Director of Academic Support and Enrichment at Foundation Academy, is at the forefront of this transformation. With 16 years of experience across various educational roles, Audrey combines deep expertise with a passion for innovation. Her extensive background in teaching practices and program development uniquely positions her to guide Foundation Academy towards a future where a comprehensive cur-

riculum seamlessly integrates with modern educational approaches. “Our main focus is expanding our programs and providing diverse opportunities for students,” she shares.

Audrey’s vision aligns with the Academy’s ambitious plan for 2030, which includes pioneering strategies designed to elevate the educational experience. “We emphasize interdisciplinary learning, enabling students to integrate various subjects and apply them to real-world scenarios,” she adds. For instance, the digital media program collaborates with TV production to live-stream events, o ering students valuable hands-on experience that connects core subjects like English, Math, and Science with practical applications. This integration helps students understand the relevance of their studies. “By linking these areas—

such as showing how geometry is crucial for an engineer—we provide students with a clear understanding of ‘why’ these concepts matter. When students grasp these connections, they can truly soar, seeing the full range of possibilities.”

Project-based learning is another key element. “We aim to foster critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and teamwork,” Audrey notes. This methodfosters relational learning and enables them to develop skills they will need to work together in team environments.

At Foundation Academy, personalized learning paths are a priority. “We recognize that flexibility is key. By allowing students to explore di erent fields, we help them make informed decisions about their futures.” Despite these advancements, the Academy’s core mission

remains steadfast. “Our primary focus is building a biblical foundation with Christcentered education; it’s woven into everything we do,” emphasizes Audrey. Foundation Academy is where exceptional education meets strong Christian values, preparing students for a successful and fulfilling future. Foundation Academy is eager to have you experience how tradition meets innovation to shape the Christian leaders of tomorrow.

For more information

15304 Tilden Rd. Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-656-3677 foundationacademy.net

Rhetoric

Rheya Tanner muses on life as a local

Defeatable Me

With extraordinary power comes extraordinary limits.

Nobody’s perfect. Achilles?

Bad ankles. Superman? Rock sensitivity. Ryan Reynolds? I’m sure he’s got something.

That even applies to me. Despite my deep and glaring perfections, I do have a few weak points. So, rest assured, if I one day become too powerful and must be thwarted, vanquished or otherwise neutralized, here are a few ways to do it: Make me pursue you on foot. If you can outrun me for about ve seconds, I’ll promptly twist both my ankles and double over from side splints.

Make me perform basic arithmetic with non-round numbers. You can slap on some handcu s while I’m holding up my ngers up trying to add 57 to 93.

Surrender your location by using cardinal directions. Hell, I can barely manage left and right, you think I can consider the sun? Include words like “northwest” and you can rest assured that I will starve to death before I nd you.

Cut me o from my crime ring by bombarding me with a whole bunch of texts and emails. I wig out when I get too many noti cations at once and will hurl my phone

into the ocean. (Adding me to a group chat won’t work, I mute that shit immediately.) Gun.

Cripple my resolve by showing me something scary. It doesn’t even have to be “scary” scary, since I’m a lifelong hardcore weenie. I refused to watch Ghostbusters as a kid because it was about a ghost, and I haven’t gotten much better since.

Quell my wrath with a peace o ering of hazelnut- avored anything. I love hazelnuts, but I’m allergic to them — I won’t die or anything, I’ll just break out in hives, and that isn’t always

enough to deter me. A few ferrero rochers and a vat of Nutella is all it takes to make me too happy (and eventually too itchy) to continue. Unleash a single cockroach into my secret lair, the bigger the better. Most bugs don’t bother me too much, but a lthy roach will never fail to curdle my bones. If you can get it to touch me, god forbid, I will simply pass away.

Steal my dog. (Please don’t steal my dog.)

Put a 15 minute phone call between me and world domination. I’ll put it o for six months before just dropping the issue entirely.

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