NOWTHEWINNEROF9AWARDSFROMTHEFLORIDAMAGAZINEASSOCIATIONPG32 THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE firstsaCelebratingandStacey,FeaturingJoshua,KaiWalkeryearofwith LoveWeOnesThe 25
A foundation for a better future. Through lifechanging training programs, Second Harvest Food Bank is feeding inspiration, change, achievement, health & families facing hunger.FOODThisIsFood.FeedHopeNow.org IS SUCCESS. S E C O N D HARVE S T FOOD BA N K O F ADIROLFLARTNEC THIS IS FOOD
I n s p i r e d b y t h e m a n y f l a v o r s o f t h e A m e r i c a s , d i s c o v e r a M i c h e l i n r e c o m m e n d e d d i n i n g e x p e r i e n c e t h a t ’ s d i s t i n c t l y e l e v a t e d a n d u n i q u e l y L a k e N o n a .
ON THE COVER Stacey, Joshua & Kai Walker on making a splash their first year as Winter Garden residents.
The Local celebrates its rst birthday by catching up with old friends and meeting new ones.
ANNE LEE
The crepe discussion no one is wondering about Rhetoric
One young employee finds indepenence (and Italian ice)
Tell Happy
First Impressions
22 Tails
50
FRED LOPEZ
66
One Winter Garden is on a mission to unite the city after three decades of inequality.
HEATHER ANNE LEE 3624 4 The Local WINTER GARDEN
6 The Lo’ Down 8 Pub Scrawl 12 Garden Variety
One For All
HEATHER
Mr. Big Sh*t
Mike Wright knows what it takes to become number one in the No. 2 business.
56
Healthy Selfie Month
Local History: Mister First Market Watch: Black Brew CharitableBros
Advice for caregivers from local home health pros Eats + Drinks
Reflecting on a year of issues—the print kind.
Once-in-a-Lifetime beverages to celebrate
C⚫
FRED LOPEZ ntents
Spotlight: OneBlood to the accidental cover model tells all. Oh, Well!
Taking care of your needs is our number one priority. For more than 15 years, we have helped seniors continue to live independently while receiving the support they need. • PERSONALIZED CARE PLANS • 24/7 AVAILABILITY • OFFERINGS INCLUDE • Meal preparation, special diets • Light housekeeping & laundry • Daily activity assistance (showering, toileting, grooming, dressing, etc.) LICENSE # 299993390 WINTERGARDENHOMECARE.COM407-347-2050 WHEN YOU AREWEHOME.ARECARE.
6 The Local WINTER GARDEN
Winter Garden Branch
Sweet Dee’s Cupcakery Thai Blossom
Orange County Library
So… as we embark on our second year, I want to ask a favor: Tell me about yourself. Whatever it is that makes you unique—how you got here, how you x your co ee, who inspires you and lifts you up— I want to hear about it. Nachos or tacos? Red wine or white? Boxers or briefs? Books or podcasts? Anything in between? You can even attach a picture if you want— of you or your beautiful family, or your dog, or your favorite space. Whatever you can think of. This community matters so much to me, and I would love to know its many faces. To meet the people sitting across the proverbial table week after week, month after month. We’ve built this beautiful space together. I pray it only gets better as time goes on. You need a village. I need a village. We all need a village. The Local is my village.
the girl with the suitcase.
Cariera’s Fresh Italian Foxtail Co ee Co.
Axiom Bank Hamlin
I used to be
Three Birds Cafe Tres Amigos
I
Pearle Vision Ocoee Pico
There’s nothing wrong with adventure. I’m thankful I never allowed my relationship status to stop me from heading out into the world and experiencing it for myself. But when my husband died, things shifted. Finding yourself on the ugly-cry side of a life-changing season will do that. More than any other time in my life, I needed people. I needed a village. And to have a village, I needed to unpack that suitcase, plant some roots, and let people in.
The Lo’Down
LOVING THE LOCAL?
FIND US ONLINE @thelocalwg
While everyone around me was nding love, settling down, and having babies, I was looking for my next plane ticket to the next destination. Even after I nally settled down myself, I still kept my suitcase packed.
RosallieRita’sPuppyPolkaBistroDotzDreamsItalianIceLeFrench Cafe
@EMagencyinc407-573-6061emagency.com
Seacoast Bank
Eight months ago, I chose to do that here, in Winter Garden. What has transpired is one of the best, most life-giving experiences I’ve ever had. I said yes to invitations from strangers. I showed up in co ee shops with a laptop and a smile. I attended chamber meetings, fundraisers, networking nights, and wine nights. I invited myself into the conversation, and in turn, you welcomed me with open arms. That’s the power of community.
Lately, I’ve been thinking about this little magazine project we started just one year ago. It’s a milestone we’re thrilled to celebrate on every page of this issue. But I keep thinking about how we wanted The Local to be received. We wanted these pages to inspire you to love your neighbors and community that much more. We wanted this magazine to feel like home.
The support from our local advertisers make it all possible. Please consider thanking them with your support.
Abbott’s Frozen Custard AntiquiTeas @Plant St Market
Heather Anne Lee Editor
A PUBLICATION OF
Pammie’s Sammies
WG Heritage Museum Wheel Works E-Bikes Winter Garden Pizza Co. Writer’s Block Bookstore and more!
FIND US IRL
The French Cafe
Je ’s Bagel Run Main House Market
Protect MattersWhatMost
theft… before,
Gain peace of mind with the most comprehensive solution in all areas of identity during & after a potential breach.
Subscribe now. ReUnified Parkinson'sliefCommunityMeet Up Come join us monthly for our Parkinson’s community meet up for the opportunity to get plugged into a community of like peers, gain support and find resources! All individuals with Parkinsons and loved ones are welcome. 14215 W Colonial Dr., Winter Garden PCM@unifiedrehabilitation.com407-614-8002 Unified Rehabilitation PLLC HEALTHY REFRESHMENTS | GUEST SPEAKERS | ACTIVITIES | PRIZES The 1st thursday of every month | 3:00 PM
What a good local magazine is not lled with is stories from outside communities, press releases, or generic content wrapped in obviously sold covers. And it’s not part of some out-of-state franchise with the name of your city lled into the blank space designated in the generic template. I can tell the di erence between something authentic and junkmail. And I was betting that the good people of Winter Garden could, too.
Publisher Scrawl
A A local magazine
People thought I was crazy. More than a few told me so! But enough of our community leaders (you’ll nd some of them on our advisory board), and enough local business owners (see our growing community of advertisers) heard my promise and decided to take a chance on it. Almost immediately, other locals noticed. Every month, new people discovered us. Readers have told me The Local felt like something they were always missing, but they didn’t know it yet. People don’t say I’m crazy anymore.
So with our rst year behind us, we are turning the page with new promises. Since demand continues to grow, The Local is growing with it. Beginning in October, we will increase our print run to 10K (double our original run), with 3,000 homes added to our mailing routes and more available at your favorite local businesses. We’re also leveling up our digital o erings with easier online reading options on our website.
Oh, and if you have a favorite local business that isn’t in The Local, let them know I think they’re crazy. Now get on with enjoying the issue—I promise it’s a good one!
Others noticed, too. This past month at the Florida Magazine Association’s Charlie Awards gala, we sat alongside Florida’s best publishers—the likes of Orlando magazine, Sarasota magazine, Flamingo magazine. All are much larger, more established, and (I’m sure) better funded. One award would’ve been great. Our haul was nine. Now that’s a promising start!
Pub
8 The Local WINTER GARDEN
Thank you for being a part of our rst year. All you wonderful people who trusted us to tell your stories. All you cover-to-cover readers. And especially the local businesses that make it possible to put this magazine in your hands. Please thank them with your support!
A promise of community, friendship, interest, and connection. A promise of stories that are relevant to your life and can tell you something new about someone or someplace familiar. A good local magazine helps you get to know your neighbors better. It’s lled with memorable images, engaging typography and smart design. It isn’t enough to just publish; a good magazine has to care about its community as more than just a pro table market. A good local magazine takes every page personally.
So one year ago I created The Local.
is a promise.
Call Your BFF. *Bryan Fifer First 16106 Marsh Road, Suite 104 407-614-2622 . bryanfifer.com State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL State Farm Florida Insurance Company, Winter Haven, FL State Farm Lloyds, Richardson, TX 1706446
Iliana Ramos
WINTER GARDEN
©2022 Em Agency. All rights reserved. Published monthly. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in the articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Em Agency. Reader submissions have been edited for length or clarity. Advertising of products does not imply endorsement. Em Agency can not be held liable for the business practices of these companies.
Mark Schmidt
Dr. Kim Dawson
Wendy Mak Designer
Tracey Forrester
Josh Clark Designer
Jamie Ezra Mark jamie@emagency.comPublisher352-425-6400
Healthcare entrepreneur and owner of Pearle Vision in Ocoee and Hamlin. Kim has been passionate about health and wellness for over 20 years. She received her doctorate in Health Science at MUSC in South Carolina. Kim has lived in Winter Garden for 10 years and is inspired daily by her two children, Symone and Desiree. In her free time, Kim likes to cook, travel, and read novels.
Kirsten is a freelance magazine writer who just returned to Winter Garden after two years of living in China. She loves to travel and explore new places, especially where food is concerned. You can often find her out on the bike trail, in the kitchen with her family, or checking out the local food scene and sharing her finds on @wintergardenfoodie.Instagram,
PROUD MEMBERS OF
Angie NHA/CDALLayfield
Jones Family, faith, and passion are the three major pillars of Iliana’s life. She and her brothers own Empire Finish Systems, of which she is the active CFO. A retired marathon runner, she has transitioned to the more tranquil pastime of acquiring house plants. When not working, she loves spending time with her amazing husband, Charlie, discovering new food, traveling and quiet evenings on Lake Apopka.
Executive Director at The Blake at Hamlin, a senior living and memory care community in Hamlin Town Center.
Owner of Winter Garden Senior Home Care. Becca is a second-generation Winter Garden resident, and her local roots run deep. She is the true embodiment of joy, and has never met a stranger. Becca loves living the “bubble life,” where her golf cart is her primary mode of transportation. She has dedicated her life to tending to the special needs of our local senior adults.
We get even better when you get involved
Mark has been a resident of Central Florida for 34 years. He spent over 30 years in the Radio and Television industry and currently works for Boyer Building Corp. as the New Business Development Manager. Interests include cheering on the Bu alo Bills, golf and enjoying the next great glass of wine. He is married to his wife, Gina, and has a “Morkie” named Finley!
Nicole Spooner Account nicole@mpactorlando.comExecutive407-595-4793
Owner of Pammie’s Sammies, a “thoughtfully sourced, tastefully WinterDr.UniversalhavingtralisSchoolInternationalManagementSpirits,withaofrestaurantadventurous”intheheartdowntown.SheispassionatefoodieadegreeinWine,andBeverageattheCulinaryinTampa.PamastapleoftheCen-Floridacommunity,operatedinOrlando,Phillips,andnowGarden.
Karen Pazik Production Director
DaniellatheirofGardennowUSFson,OriginallyseveralroleRalphthepeoplethehighestPartners,Mortgagesettingthestandardsinindustrybyputtingfirst.Priortomortgageindustryplayedakeyinthestartupofbusinesses.fromEmer-NJ,RalphattendedinTampaandresidesinWinterwithhiswife17years,Sandi,andtwodaughtersandAvery.
Branch Manager with Success
Tarin Scarbrough Writer
Pam Thomas
Bryan Fifer
Rheya Tanner Art Director
Heather Anne Lee heather@emagency.comEditor
Andrew Ontko Designer
Local agent with State Farm Insurance. Bryan is a Central Florida native, live,themakinghighlychildren.havewiferiedAll-ProandWhoHorizonClubPresidentFoundingoftheRotaryofHorizonWest,WestWho’sAwardWinner,TeamCaptainforDad.Heismar-tohisbeautifulAngieandtheytwowonderfulBryanisinvestedinHorizonWestbestplacetowork,andplay.
HarringtonKirsten
JOIN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY
Angie has been in the senior housing industry for over 20 years and brings a wealth of Watermark.resideAngieWestsheinallyfamilies.Westinsightexperience,knowledge,andtoourHorizonseniorsandtheirThoughorig-fromMaryland,hascalledHorizonhomesince2016.andherfamilyinVillageF’s
Send ideas and images thelocalwg@emagency.comto:
Fred Lopez Chief Photographer Heather Luxemburg Writer
Know someone extraodinary? Want to write for the magazine? Got a story to pitch?
Becca Lanterman
10 The Local WINTER GARDEN
EDITORIAL
Caleb Jensen Web
Kelsi-Ann Bailey Intern MacKenzie Hancock Intern
September 2022 Vol. 2 No. 1
THE ADVISORY BOARD
Ralph Disciullo
Tracey is a community advocate ownersandindividuals,helpingfamiliessmallbusinessgainaccess to a ordable legal coverage with LegalShield, as well as help protect against identity theft through IDShield. She has been a resident of Horizon West since 2007 with her beautiful teenage girls, Averie and Bryce. Cofounder of Horizon West Professionals and founding member of the Rotary Club of Horizon West, Tracey believes lasting relationships start with community .
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RisingAlex
For Alex Azzizzo, finding joy and independence started with Italian ice.
Serving up such avors isn’t always a perfect science, and to be honest, it’s not Alex’s favorite part
“It’s my favorite part of the day. Yeah. My favorite. When I get to have ice,” Alex shares with a smile.
who loves the product and wants to tell everyone about it.
12 The Local WINTER GARDEN
A
t 26 years old, Alex Azzizzo is bright-eyed and full of gregarious energy. He’s greeting customers, wiping down tables, and telling everyone within earshot about his forHe’savor—cherry-brasberry.favoritetheperfectevangelistRita’sItalianIce:aman
with her employees, and I wanted that opportunity for Alex, but you never know,” she says. “Autistic employees have their own unique challenges, and not everyone is up for that. But when I nally asked her if Alex could help out a couple of hours a week, Cara didn’t even hesitate.”
goal of ushering him toward independence.
separation brings tears to her eyes, but seeing Alex thrive in his new home is worth the heartache.
The Azzizzo family, who moved to Winter Garden a year ago in June, built Alex his rst studio apartment, where he lives on his own. Several days a week, Alex rides his bike up the West Orange Trail to downtown Winter Garden, whether it’s for work at Rita’s or Axum Co ee, where he’s also been welcomed with open arms. After months of practice— and a tracking app on her smart watch—Lisa now rests comfortably with Alex’s safety and growing undertowardhasAnthony—whoAlex’sindependence.BackinNewJersey,twinbrother,alsoautism—isworkingasimilargoalthewatchfuleyes of
“I like to clean. Cleaning is the best,” he says.
“I knew when I opened this place, I wanted to work with teens and young adults. I wanted a place where they could have their rst job, where kids could learn about life in a fun, exible environment. Adding Alex into the mix just seemed like a natural t. And he’s really a delight, such a hard worker.”
of the job. What he truly loves is meeting people, and cleaning.
For Alex, the few hours per week that he works at Rita’s is part of Lisa’s larger
#HealthySelfies
Owner Cara Washington, says, “He’s the best cleaner we have; Alex’s attention to detail to second to none! I’d take a hundred of him if I could.”
“Winter Garden has been amazing for us as a family,” she says. “The work opportunities have given Alex purpose, meaningful community moments, and independence. The acceptance, patience, kindness, and understanding extended to our son is truly heartwarming. We have never seen Alex this happy! The way this community has welcomed him, how they take care of him and watch out for him … it’s everything we’ve wished for. It’s a dream come true.”
“From the moment we started coming here, [Cara] never treated Alex any di erently than she treated other kids. I saw the way she interacted
Alex agrees. “A dream. We love Florida. Florida is home,” he smiles, lips stained purple from his post-work treat. “Want some ice?”
SEPTEMBER 2022 13
gardening, biking, yoga… so many possibilities! Post your photo by Sept. 15, and be sure to tag #healthysel e and @HealthyWestOrange. Then vote for your favorites on the Healthy West Orange page from Sept.16 to 19.
September is Healthy Sel e month, and your sel e could win a one-year membership to the YMCA of Central Florida or a Fitbit! What counts as a healthy sel e? Cooking with your kids, walking your dog, swimming,
Lisa’s eldest daughter. The
Of course, hiring Alex required a leap of faith for the entrepreneur; until now, Cara had no prior experience with neurodivergent employees like Alex, who has autism. But it was equally a leap of faith for Alex’s mother, Lisa Azzizzo, although she had good reason to be optimistic.
Cara shrugs o the compliment with a warm smile.
One thing’s for sure: no matter your background, co ee unites us all.
UCFATRICHESCOURTESYPHOTOHISTORY 14 The Local WINTER GARDEN
Black Brew Bros Brandon Erving drinks a lot of co ee. It powered his long hours as a phlebotomist, and now it has sparked an entirely new career. Six years ago, he started roasting his own beans, and two years ago, he left his job to pursue co ee full time.
Mr. First
“The name Black Brew Bros. means several di erent things,” he says. “First, it’s another term for co ee — black brew. I only use 100% organic, arabica beans,perfect for drinking black.” Second, the name is also a nod to his race. Not only is Brandon passionate about co ee and co ee education, he hopes to inspire and encourage entrepreneurship within the black community.
HISTORYLOCAL
MARKETWATCH
Either way, there’s no better way to experience the Saturday Market than with one of Brandon’s signature brews, hot or cold, in hand. Roasted on Monday, packed on Wednesday, and brewed fresh on Saturday morning.
Arthur Bullard Newton, born in Mississippi during the Civil War, came to the Winter Garden area in 1892, determined to make an impact. A contemporary of James Dillard (who himself had a profound influence on the area’s development), “A.B.” Newton came to be known as “Mr. First” in his adopted hometown.A.B.rana general store, established the city’s Post O ice in 1892, and created our town’s first newspaper—The Ricochet. He acted as Winter Garden’s first train depot agent and served as its first mayor. When the First National Bank of Winter Garden was established in 1919, A.B. immediately signed on to become one of its cashiers. He served as Orange County’s legislator in the Florida House of Representatives—chosen as its Speaker of The House several times.
September marks his second year in business, and his rst full year at the Winter Garden Farmers Market. To celebrate, Black Brew Bros. will be o ering specials on co ee and tea.
A.B. certainly succeeded in his mission to make an impact. Today, we honor his namesake at beautiful Newton Park, and the home he built in 1905 still stands today at 125 W. Smith Street. Arthur Bullard Newton passed away in 1940 and is buried in Beulah Cemetery.
At Schwab, we take time to give you straightforward answers to your toughest questions. What are our fees? We’ll tell you. How about fully explaining our services? You got it. If you live in Clermont, go ahead. Ask Michael anything. He’ll always give you a transparent answer. started at Branch
Because transparency matters.
Get
schwab.com/clermont © 2022 Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (“Schwab”) Member SIPC. All rights reserved. (1120-0JP6) SCH6700-10 (6/22) When it comes to your toughest questions, we’re an open book. Michael Wytiaz, CFP®
Winter Garden’s Premier Senior Living Community is Now Open and Welcoming New Residents 4814 Hamlin Groves Tr. | Winter Garden, FL 34787 | blakeathamlin.com AL # 13674 A Come discover The Blake at Hamlin – Winter Garden’s premier Assisted Living and Memory Care community. Hospitality, comfort and luxury are blended to create a Senior Living community like no other. You are going to feel right at home! Limited Space Available! Schedule your tour today at (407) 305-7595 WE’RE READY TO Welcome You Home! NowOpen!
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While 37% of Americans are eligible to donate blood, only 5% actually do. “Some people think they’re not able to donate; they think they’re not eligible,” says Deirdre Anderson, a phlebotomist at OneBlood Winter Garden. “It’s just about making sure you’re healthy and your vitals are good, nothing more than that.”
Last but not least, our Living Lucky friend Jana Shelfer told us about locals Patrick and Shapprell Dallas who just launched Team Rep USA (@team_rep_usa) bike upcycling and pitch plate business. “We Don’t Pedal Bikes, We Roll Pride.” Love it!
Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. And that person can’t wait for the next blood drive in town; they rely on the blood that’s available right now. In other words, the most critical donations are those given before they’re ever even needed.
CHARITABLESPOTLIGHT
Since 2012, OneBlood has brought more than 100 years of lifesaving experience to the community, collecting nearly 1 million units of blood annually and deploying nearly 200 of its signature Big Red Buses for blood drives. Yesterday’s donors are today’s heroes. Be tomorrow’s hero.
One Blood. One Mission.
“We’re giving back to the community, helping to save lives,” says Sharyeia Bradford, phlebotomist at OneBlood Winter Garden. “You never know when you may need it yourself.”
Email heather@emagency.com
THERE IS ALWAYS GOOD NEWS IN THE GARDEN SHARE YOUR LOCAL GOOD NEWS!
And with the opening of a new OneBlood Donation Center located in the Healthy West Orange Building on Plant Street, donating has never been simpler.
Love it or hate it, pumpkin spice season is ba-ack! You’ll find us queueing up at Axum, Foxtail, and even Möge Tee in search of the best pumpkin drinks in town. And when we’re done, we’ll be pairing that calorie bomb with a healthy dose of hydration at the newly opened Prime IV Hydration and Wellness (@PrimeIVWinterGardenFL).
Also on our healthy radar is the new Clean Eatz Cafe (@cleaneatzwintergardenfl), now open at The Mark Plaza. We’re loving their weekly meal plan options. And congrats to Ryan and Alyson Chu (aka Mrs. Winter Garden) for launching Winter Garden Microgreens (@wintergardenmicrogreens). They’ve teamed up with Farmacy Orlando (@farmacyorlando) to o er delivery and pickup options throughout the week. And because life is all about balance, you’ll also want to swing by Playa Pizza (@eatplayapizza). New York style pizza at the beach? It’s a vibe, and we’re here for it.
In non-food related news, Hamlin Animal Hospital (@hamlinvet) o icially opened last month to rounding paw-some applause. And we’re very excited for the return of Tracy Solly to the West Orange Chamber of Commerce team. As Vice President, Tracy will oversee the Membership Development, Marketing, and Events Department and work with the board on governance and financial oversight.
Get Involved! 689-220-4200oneblood.org
16 The Local WINTER GARDEN
Dr. Donita McCants celebrates seven dog years in the driver’s seat at her mobile veterinary clinic.
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
“My business model has never changed. From the very beginning, I set a high standard for serviceconcierge-levelfirst-class,veterinarybroughtrighttoa
If only we could ask Dr. Donita’s patients what they think of the service, we’re pretty sure we know how they’d“Whenrespond.itcomes down to it, yes, my services are very convenient for pet owners. But for the pets, they can be essential. Many dogs and cats don’t exactly enjoy a trip to the vet. They’ve either had a bad experience at a vet’s o ice, are nervous about the whole procedure, or, are scared to death of strangers and new places. Pets feed o the energy around them, and there is no more comforting, stressfree place for them to get a checkup or a belly rub than in their own home.
“I was fully operational the day it was delivered. I can perform surgery, spays and neuters, remove tumors, do dental procedures, and most everything else, my mobile clinic is that well equipped. For anything else that might require specialized care, I partner with Blue Pearl Specialty Hospital.
Her practice runs on a deeply held love of animals—at five years of age she was already rescuing baby birds and squirrels. Today it also runs on four wheels. Yes, Dr. Donita is a new breed of veterinarian, a doctor who actually makes house calls!
“Plus, we are o icially Fear Free Certified. We’ve gone the extra mile and undergone special certification to be able to treat pets that are especially skittish or anti-social. New clients even fill out an ‘emotional report card’ so we are fully aware of a pet’s behaviors
Dr Donita McCants is a veterinarian on the go, literally.
She’d been considering the idea of a mobile vet practice from as far back as vet school. “I have a strong entrepreneurial spirit and so, I already knew I wanted my own practice. I looked deeper into going mobile, and talked about it with other veterinarians at conferences. There was a lot about the concept that appealed to me. Much less overhead compared to a brick-andmortar location. I wouldn’t be tied down. I could set my own hours. And I had a lot moreShecontrol.”conducted exhaustive research, and after kicking a lot of tires set her sights on a custom-equipped Mercedes Sprinter van. She pulled the trigger on the van over a year ago, but it wasn’t until March that the fully customized van—complete with a hydraulic lift table for surgeries and exams, x-ray machine, blood analyzer, microscope station, and more—rolled into town.
client’s doorstep. Mine is an open, honest practice and I promise not to waste money on bonathatofwhichaunnecessaryluxury—whichmayiandelivermeprocedures.unnecessaryThevangiveseverytoolIneedtoonthatpromise.”Havingyourveterinar-cometoyourhomeseem,atfirst,likeaitis.Or,anwaytomakevetbillcostevenmore—itisnot.FormanyDr.Donita’sclients,avetmakeshousecallsisafidenecessity.“Ihavemanyseniorsin
my client list who don’t get around as easily anymore. When you add a pet to the mix, a trip to the vet’s o ice can become a daunting task for them. Persons with disabilities certainly appreciate the convenience. And for households with more than one pet—I have one family member with five dogs!—there is simply no better way.”
Forging strong connections with her clients—pets and humans—is of prime importance for Dr. Donita. In fact, new clients and prospective new clients are almost always surprised when they call to make an appointment or to ask questions and Dr. Donita herself answers the phone. “If I’m busy, my vet assistant Katie will take the call. But it will always be one of us. That phone call could be our first chance at making a connection with someone new. I considered an answering service, but I like the immediacy of answering the phone myself. It’s much quicker and so much more personal.”
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
Most people who read
before we ever begin treatment. Clients with nervous pets become some of our most loyal fans.”
“Wellness plans are not insurance plans, however. For unplanned medical scenarios, pet insurance provides an extra layer of coverage for veterinary services. We partner with Trupanion Pet Insurance, rated 4.5 stars out of 5 by Forbes. People often get confused between wellness plans and insurance plans. We are more than happy to explain the di erences and answer any questions to help you make the right decision for your pet.”
—Dr. Donita McCants
“I get to meet county.”amazingrestandGardenWinteraboutlovetonewdiscoverpeople.newIthingsfallinwiththeofour
It’s this level of service that first made Dr. Donita a local favorite when she burst on the scene one year ago. Twelve months later, her broad smile and enthusiasm speak volumes: “Business is GREAT! We have about seven hundred active patients and we’re growing steadily! If this first year has done anything, it showed us that our original vision of providing a concierge-level vet practice on your doorstep is an idea that people will embrace. We have expanded our services this past year to o er wellness plans to our clients. They’re basically financial programs we can put together to provide specific vet services struc-
tured to fit a client’s budget. We tailor them to fit their pet’s needs for every stage of life from puppy to old age. They’re a wonderful way to plan medical coverage for your dog or cat when they need it.
ier on pets and owners alike. The combination of above and beyond convenience and superior quality of care is a no-brainer. But, what does Dr. Donita get out of it?
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
want to know what it costs. Dr. Donita is quick to point out that the costs for her services are right in line with expected vet fees from traditional land-based vet practices—with the exception of the mobile o ice fee. For that, Dr. Donita charges $70.00 on top of the normal veterinary charges.
1. Dr. Donita has been a competitive bodybuilder for years.
about Dr. Donita’s Veterinary Concierge Services will agree that, on one hand, it sounds like a great way to provide care for their pets. On the other hand, they’ll
“I get to put my e orts into the reasons I wanted to become a vet in the first place. I get closer to my patients and I meet tons of people where they are the most comfortable—in their own homes. Many of them have since become good friends. Because I’m out driving all
“That makes every day di erent and exciting. I get to meet new people. I discover new things to fall in love with about Winter Garden and the rest of our amazing county. Every day I get to wake up to a new adventure. I couldn’t ask for more than that.”
the time, heading to my day’s slate of appointments, I also get to see more of the area and drive down streets and neighborhoods I never even knew existed.
2. She is a frequent poster on Facebook and ManyInstagram.peoplegot to know her exclusively through her ismobiletypicalofthroughnelnowYouTube3.Donita.presence—AskonlineDr.TheAskDr.Donitachannelislive!Thechan-showseveryone,aseriesvideos,whatadaywithaveterinarianlike.
Did Know?You
Dr. Donita’s Veterinary Concierge Services Orlando, FL DrDonitasVetconciergeServices.comaskdrdonita@gmail.com407-490-165232835
It’s clear to us how Dr. Donita’s Veterinary Concierge Services can appeal to a broad range of clients. It’s super convenient. It’s eas-
Dr. Angela L. Washington is a member of the American Optometric Association, the Florida Optometric Association, the Central Florida Society of Optometric Physicians, and Black Eyecare Perspective. She is passionate about caring for patients with advanced eye diseases and preventing the progression of myopia in nearsighted children. She is a native Floridian, a wife, and a mom of two girls. See Dr. Washington at our NEW Hamlin location!
MEET OUR OPTOMETRISTNEW
DOWNLOAD THE WINTER GARDEN APP YOUR COMMUNITY GUIDE TO EVENTS AND DEALS CHECK OUT THE PORTALS AND SECRET GARDEN FOR AUGMENTED REALITY EXPERIENCES Ocoee: 11024 W. Colonial Dr. Winter Garden: 5736 Hamlin Groves Trail 407.565.9290 pearlevision.com
Am I famous? Will I meet lots of humans who want to snap me with their picturetakers? I’d better practice my “Happy” face!
My name’s Happy. It’s the best name! I love it so much so I show everyone I meet what a happy boy I am. One time I wasn’t so happy. I
Happy’sTrails
Golden Retriever Mix age 21/2 22 The Local WINTER GARDEN
was a puppy and I was at a shelter and I was sick and itchy. But then Mom adopted me! She’s the best. She named me Happy and then helped me feel all healthy so I could live up to the name. But we’ll talk about her later—come on, take a picture of me! Cheeeeeeese. Read about how Happy became a cover model on p. 31
But then the picture-taker saw us, and we got to be on the cover of a magazine!
I didn’t get to meet many people that day, when Mom and I were on our walkies.
Tails to Tell
Wow… so this is a “picture taker.” I’ve wondered about this thing since I saw it snap-snap-snapping while the lady posed and smiled. I wanted to be in it, too … and I guess I was!
703 Vineland Rd., Winter puppydreamspetboarding.comGarden407-654-8885 FAMILY OWNED Also find us on 38 dog kennels of multiple sizes 3 outdoor play yards All walks and play groups included with stay! Allison E.M. Budnik,Attorney 161 S. Boyd St., Suite 100, Winter Garden 407-499-2082 / WGfamilylawfirm.com Divorce, Paternity, Child Support, Modification
F1RST IMPRESSIONS
24 The Local WINTER GARDEN
HEATHER ANNE LEE, HEATHER LUXEMBURG, MARK MCWATERS FRED LOPEZ
This month, The Local turns one, and what a wild, wonderful ride it’s been. We’re commemorating our milestone by celebrating all of yours.
I
t’s Saturday morning in Winter Garden. Market vendors are still unpacking crates and stacking displays, smiling and chatting up friendly neighbors. It’s still early enough that the subtle August breeze hasn’t gone full convection oven … yet.
A Year in the Garden
SEPTEMBER 2022 25
“It already feels like home,” Stacey says, with a smile.
Outside of being close to an airport for family, parks, Disney, and nearby beaches, diversity was also a signicant factor. Joshua chimes in, “The diversity was huge. I’m African American, Stacey is Guyanese, and you don’t see a lot of black and brown people in certain communities. We wanted to move into a community that was diverse, for Kai to grow up seeing people that look like him, don’t look like him, and everything else.”
“We both grew up in New York, and it was pretty big with city life up there, especially for me,” Joshua says. “I lived in intercity apartment buildings, where you’ve got people all around you. Cars, tra c, Staceyeverything.”adds,“Sowhen we had Kai, we knew we wanted him to grow up in a place that was more laid back, more family oriented.”
aren’t many communities where you can walk down the block and nd someone from every culture— we learned this during Halloween that we are surrounded by such kind and welcoming people of all shades!”
Indeed, Winter Garden has surpassed every expectation. Joshua recalls one of their rst experiences driving through downtown, “The people give it its charm. We were driving around, and a guy waved
cane zones like the Panhandle, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa; and we’re not into the party scene, so Miami was out. Once we eliminated those areas, Orlando just made the most sense.”
It’s only been 12 months since Stacey, Joshua, and 1-year-old Kai Walker moved to Winter Garden, so they are still acclimating to August’s sticky heat. But that doesn’t stop them from coming to the market every weekend, hunting for fresh, delicious options to meet their plant-based diet. Kai stops to pet a particularly friendly dog, tail wagging and tongue eager to lick those chubby cheeks. Stacey holds Kai’s hand, carefully watching the dog, while Josh stops to say hi to friends.
So, they began their search for a new community to ourish in with their family. “We wanted to move to a warmer state, so looked at Georgia, Florida, or Texas. After we did our research, we realized that Florida had more things to do such as beaches, Disney, and parks. We knew we wanted to be away from the crazy hurri-
attitudegoodcomfortablelaid-back,relaxed,becomeI’veamoreversionofmyself.LeavingthehustleandbustleofNewYorkhasbeensoformyandoutlookonlife.
26 The Local WINTER GARDEN
Also, housing prices just made sense, comparatively speaking. Though the market is hot, it’s still nowhere near metropolitan New York. “Sure, the housing market was crazy last year, but we were still able to build a new home in Waterleigh, which was great. Plus, this is also our rst home living without our parents!”
Stacey says, “We love the diversity in Winter Garden— wherever you look, you can see di erent ages, races, cultures. There
SEPTEMBER 2022 27
of followed us down, but that was really cool because now we can experience everything together.”
So special, in fact, that Stacey and Joshua have inuenced others to make the move.“My parents moved down here!” Stacey says, enthusiastically. “They kind
a better version of yourself or a better version of the person you want to be.”
toSchmearRemember
So what di erence has a year made in the Walker household? “It has been eye-opening,” says Joshua. “I’ve become a more relaxed, laid-back, comfortable version of myself.
The Local Magazine spins a downhome weave every month that puts the local landscape into clear focus. In turn, creating a love and appreciation for our Winter Garden community.
at us in our car! Every time we drove past someone, about 80% of them waved. I swear, it was a set-up,” Joshua jokes. Coming from New York City, he likes that Winter Garden has a comfortable, almost country-like atmosphere. “I mean, there are grazing cows and horses in pastures on my drive home. You just don’t see that in New York City.”
A
Stacey’s favorite memory from the last year came last fall. “We had never experienced anything like it. At Halloween, everybody was outside; some people barbecued while others handed out food. Kids were going door-todoor. It was an experience. It’s only something you can get here; it’s so very special.”
One year down, many more to come!
For Stacey, “It has taught me who I am and what I value. After moving I realized how important family is, and having my parents here is such a blessing.”
Leaving the hustle and bustle of New York has been so good for my attitude and outlook on life. I’ve really grown as a person. It’s really important to grow in di erent ways and see how you can push yourself to be
• TANJA GERHARTZ CITY OF WINTER GARDEN
In our rst issue, we introduced you to Je and Danielle Perera, the dynamic duo behind Je ’s Bagel Run, which had just opened its rst brick-and-mortar location. One year later—to the day!—Je & Danielle opened their second location in Orlando. Bravo!
Kennedy Rose Walker has recently started walking and loves waving at everything, something she may have learned from her Disney Cast Member mom. She’s a happy, easy-going gal who loves to comfort other kids when they are crying, including giving them a paci er, patting them, and rocking them in a bouncer. The newest annual pass holder has already been to all four parks and got to meet Mary Poppins while wearing a matching dress. She even got to see the Magic Kingdom reworks when she was just two months old. When she’s not cavorting with her favorite characters, she loves playing in the pantry and showing you her belly button if you ask.
28 The Local WINTER GARDEN
Nothing puts time into perspective like having kids! In our very rst issue, we introduced you to Winter Garden’s newest residents, two babies born in separate hospitals just one hour apart. Seems only tting that we catch up with Leilani and Kennedy as we all turn one!
Ones to Grow On
bye-bye, and often says Nana? We’re still trying to gure that one out. She recognizes and can point out facial features and toes when asked. She knows how to say “all done” in sign
language and wave hello and goodbye! And she may look like her mama, but she has her dad’s appetite.
Leilani Juliana
Joseph is a dancing machine and doesn’t hesitate to clap and boogie as soon as she hears a beat! She is also quite the explorer, using her newfound walking and crawling skills to climb everything and everything. She can say Mama, Dada,
SEPTEMBER 2022 29
Diandra Culver
Cue the confetti… again! If you remember, Diandra announced her pregnancy in our November issue. This past April, Diandra and Dustin welcomed their newest little cupcake, Alani Grace.
I love that The Local features real people who live in our community. It’s so nice to sit and read real stories that aren’t all just generic or paid for. My favorite article each time is what Tarin writes. Such great info and is always entertaining!
Our favorite pint-sized Bassist/Tea Queen is feeling the heat from a recent cover her band, Lies Behind Your Eyes, produced. Apparently covering beloved K-POP band BTS’s “Fake Love” in a thrasher way brings out the haters. Personally, we’re darn proud and want to see more! Check out the music video at in.thelocalwg.com/fake-love-video
30 The Local WINTER GARDEN
• EMILY TORNATORE PUB NAPKIN PARTNERSHIPS
Billy Flanigan
The man, the myth, the ( ani)gram. Billy Flanigan lit up the December issue with his colorful personality and compelling story. Since then, he celebrated 40 years at Disney and the o cial release of his documentary, The Happiest Man on Earth!
Suni Maharaj
Little did Mary Wisham know when she stepped out for her morning walk, she would end up on the cover!
CoverAccidentalTheModel
“I saw all the equipment and the photo session going on; the model was posing. I waited until I thought we were out of the shot and we walked across. My goodness, I had no idea we crashed the party until the magazine came out and there we were! People kept asking me about it. ‘Hey, I saw you on the cover of that magazine—that Winter Garden magazine!’ Then a friend saw that The Local was asking who I was. Well, I called the magazine right away ... I just hoped I wasn’t in any trouble.”
A Winter Garden resident for 26 years and counting, Mary and her Golden Retriever mix, Happy, were just out for their morning stroll when they came across Ashley Morton posing in the street.
SEPTEMBER 2022 31
Eats
“Joy to Be Held” “Reigning Cats & Dogs” “All Access Past” SILVER BEST DEPARTMENTSINGLE IMAGE Heals
Creating this magazine has been its own reward. Each month, we get to weave new stories into the rich fabric of 34787 and connect more deeply with the people who call it home. But when the Florida Magazine Association (FMA) annual Charlie Awards—the premier magazine awards in the state—opened for entries, we couldn’t help but wonder how we stacked up against Florida’s most prominent publications. Passion had carried us this far, after all, so maybe passion would help us carry home a trophy or two. Even that would have been an honor.
AWARDS BEST FEATURESINGLEIMAGE Je ’s Bagels BEST DEPARTMENTWRITING: & Drinks BEST HEADLINESFEATURE in
Seasoning
CHARLIE
Nine awards. Three of them golds (or “Charlies”). We weren’t expecting that. Why are we taking the space to boast about our victory? Because it’s your victory, too. We’re only as good as the stories we have to tell. Your stories, your smiles, and your support are what our now-awardwinning content is founded on. Thank you for opening your homes and your hearts to The Local. We couldn’t have won it without you.
Heels SILVER BEST TYPOGRAPHYDESIGN: Joy to Be Held SILVER BEST MAGAZINE NEW The Local SILVER BEST DESIGNOVERALL The Local BRONZE BEST PHOTOGRAPHYCOVER Miguel of La v BRONZE BEST SPECIAL THEME OR SHOW ISSUE The New Issue Oh Well! Heals in Heels SweetTheLife W Chews Local Miguel of A WINTER GARDEN Effievescent HomeIssue stoked newest WG certainly only town. our places, PossibleThe M on the Scene 32 The Local WINTER GARDEN
CHARLIE
CHARLIE
SEPTEMBER 2022 33
Those hours outside the fencing academy in 2009, while she waited for her
daughter Maia to nish training, became her most productive.“I’manight owl,” Suzi says. “I can’t tell you how many nights I stayed up until 2:30 or 3 in the morning, channeling my thoughts and ideas into these notebooks. And that’s part of the writing process, for sure. But my real writing, weaving the ideas into chapters, happened on Main Street. There were fewer distractions. My workday was over. Maia was busy. I could focus on the book. So yeah, I literally wrote this book on Main Street, Winter Garden.”Alifelong reader, Suzi found joy in storytelling early on. “I have so many favorite authors, but Judy Blume really inspired me. Her characters were so memorable, so relatable,” she says. And that relatability is what she most wants from her main charac-
• MARK SCHMIDT BOYER BUILDING CORP.
•
I was recently in the Las Vegas airport and boarded the plane with a work associate who happens to live in Clermont. His wife immediately looked at me and said, “Are you the BFF?” My wife and I looked at each other both thinking —WOW — that ad is working!really BRYAN FIFER STATE INSURANCEFARM
ter, Chloe Jacobs. “I wanted to create a female character who was strong and had a lot of drive, but one who would struggle to keep that drive when faced with hard challenges. I mean, that’s what we all face in life, right?!” SuziThoughsays. A Life Revealed is more than a decade old, Suzi decided to revisit Chloe during the pandemic. “There were always some loose ends, pieces that I didn’t feel worked with the rst edition, so I decided to go back into the story and release a second edition. Plus, I knew Chloe’s story wasn’t over; the second book was already lling more notebooks,” she laughs. And that it has. The sequel to A Life Revealed, titled Hiding in the Open, will be released later this fall.
It was a quiet Winter Garden afternoon when Suzi Katz pulled up a chair outside Winter Garden Fencing Academy, and opened one of several composition notebooks. Notes, ideas, questions, lists, and doodles lled the margins. To a stranger, the scribbles would be modern hieroglyphics. To Suzi, it was the start of something big.
EditionFirst
A class publication that captures the entire “heartbeat” of Winter Garden. From its people, events, history, and geography, The Local brings the entire town into a uniquely couldeducational,Entertaining,perspective.inspiredandfun,whatmoreyouaskfor?
She unfolded her laptop, reviewed her notes, and started writing what would become her rst book, A Life Revealed.
34 The Local WINTER GARDEN
COMMUNITY LEADERS (LEFT TO RIGHT) Chloe Johnson-Brunson, Jamie Holley, Austin Arthur, and Eric Debose (not pictured) comprise the One Winter Garden Team.
36 The Local WINTER GARDEN
HEATHER ANNE LEE FRED LOPEZ
SEPTEMBER 2022 37
one For years many saw East Winter Garden as a wholly separate community from the rest of Winter Garden. One Winter Garden is on a mission to change that. For All
Garden CRA to leverage the redevelopment success in Downtown Winter Garden to bene t East Winter Garden. It is estimated that more than $20 million will be generated during this timeframe and at least 75 percent of these funds will be spent in East Winter Garden to revitalize the community.Butthat’snot all: The Community Resource Center is now open. Community charrettes were held to help develop a block-by-block plan for 10th and Center Streets and a conceptual plan for West Orange Technical College Campus. A neighborhood revitalization grant through West Orange Habitat for Humanity has been funded, and The West Orange Boys and Girls Club is currently under review for approval on City property to be located on 9th
“ItStreet.hasbeen a very busy and exciting time, as a community we have been empowered to speak our minds on issues that concern us and we are only getting started!” says Jamie.
FAST FACTS
The heart of East Winter Garden is Center Street, which was historically the commercial center for Winter Garden’s African American community. While the area originally developed in the early 20th century, few structures remain from those early decades. Over the years, the neighborhood has lost many of its local businesses, and today there are homesforcanstreetadditionarepedestrian-scaledthevacantabandonednumeroushomesandlots.However,smallblocksandstreetsintact,andwiththeofsidewalks,trees,andlighting,betheframeworksupportingnewinfillandbusinesses.
Thirty years ago, driving down Plant Street was a much di erent experience. Often referred to locally as “Winter Garbage,” the blighted downtown was rife with crime, deteriorating industrial structures, boarded-up storefronts, and dilapidated housing. Lake Apopka, once an renownedinternationallydestination, had been reduced to murky sludge, and even The Edgewater Hotel, a thriving tourist hub in the early 1900s, was on the brink of demolition.Sowhathelped revive this languishing downtown? A few passionate citizens and the formation of The Winter Garden Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) in June 1992. Today, Downtown Winter Garden is a shining success story of conspeaksWintergrouppresidentnity,”bilitytomunityteamthreeneglected.Gardeneast,However,redevelopment.onemiletothehistoricEastWinterndsitselflargelyButjustasithaddecadesbefore,anewofimpassionedcom-leadershasrisenupchangethat.“Wemusttakeresponsi-forourowncommu-saysJamieHolley,oftheadvocacyOneWinterGarden.BornandraisedinEastGarden,Jamiewithbothbolddenceandheartfelt sionapprovedtheCountyFurthermore,receivedasAlliancetertheisbehindGardenandbuildbeunitytousmytoGarden—it’saboutsothisthecommunity,comestatement:terviceGardenthatchangethat.andsomeonenotdeterioration.crime,battleandwatchedsupplication—she’stheneighborhoodcommunityshelovesasteadyinuxofpoverty,andoverall“Wecan-sitaroundandexpecttocomealongsaveus.OnlywecandoTherststeptowardisorganizingandiswhatOneWinterisdoing.”ChloeJohnson-Brunson,presidentofOneWin-Garden,echoesJamie’s“Thetimehasforustobuildupourtoinvestinpeoplewhohavemadetheirhome.TherearemanypositivethingslivinginEastWinterwhyIchosecomebackhere,toraisefamilyhere.Butfortotrulythrive,weneedbringpeace,love,andtoourcommunity.Tounitedinoureortstoupthisplacewelove,IbelieveOneWintercanhelpdothat.”Indeed,themomentumOneWinterGardenpalpable.Thisyearalone,highly-activeEastWin-GardenNeighborhoodociallyrebrandedOneWinterGardenandits501(c)3status.theBoardofCommissionersandCityofWinterGardena10-yearexten-thatallowstheWinter
38 The Local WINTER GARDEN
Chloe agrees, “We are grateful the City has been a great partner and listened to our concerns. In the immediate future, we will continue to address issues as they come before the community and work
SEPTEMBER 2022 39
community will the redevelopment stretch?
Proposed revitalization at 10th & Plant Street includes filling in vacant lots over time to increase housing opportunities and restore a neighborhood.complete
The original plan developed by Dover Kohl & Partners was unveiled in 2018. In the five years since, what, if anything, has changed?
hard to ensure that the new growth coming into this side of town helps to promote and enforce our history and longstanding culture. We want to change but we do not want to change who we are.”
Austin: Dover & Kohl has done a great job so far, especially when it comes to keeping the integrity of the community at the forefront. However, one thing the original plan failed to address was the community’s crime rate. This is a very important step that must occur
Downtown redevelopment, and it’s equally important to the people of East Winter Garden. How will these preservation efforts compare?
The core development seems to be focused around 10th and Center Street. How deep into the
Tanja: In redevelopment, the core is where you start, and revitalization typically radiates out from there. The historic business district that was located at the corner of 10th and Center Streets is the core, so that is where the City will begin, focusing on in ll a ordable housing. Most of the commercial development will be located along East Plant Street, but there will be a small neighborhood-friendly business district located at the corner of 10th and Center Street. When the revitalization is complete,
the cumulative impact will elevate the economic well-being of everyone.
MEET THE NEIGHBORS
Recently, The Local met with three One Winter Garden team members— Jamie, Chloe,and the group’s secretary, Austin Arthur —and City of Winter Garden Economic Development Director Tanja Gerhartz, to learn more about the initiative.
Tanja: The City of Winter Garden will work with the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, our consultant Dover Kohl & Partners, and residents to create an overlay that respects the historic character and architecture of the community.
Historical preservation was important to
40 The Local WINTER GARDEN
The most exciting portions are yet to come, but we understand it takes time! The early stages are not the most visible portions of the process in terms of results seen and felt.
Jamie: The newly annexed areas have nally received, after decades, proper street lighting. This is a tremendous blessing! Many do not realize the di culty of raising young children and not having the common bene t of safe lighting. Once the City took over these areas from the County, it happened quickly. The City is also in the early stages of new streetscaping to begin the process of beautifying our public road areas as was done years ago for Downtown.
for the positive change we all want to see happen. It is not easy though. A lot of the crime comes from nonresidents that come into the community. The City has been tackling it and we know there have been some tensions created at times when occasionally people get inadvertently pulled into controversy while o cers try to enforce new implementations. However, with communication, the residents are working well with the City to understand each other’s positions, needs, and actions better. The City and community are doing a great job together working on a di cult item.
Austin: A ordable housing! While the City works on the completion of an Architectural and Historic Preservation Overlay that will protect the historical integrity of the area, things are able to move forward with a ordable housing and inHumanityWestfullhaveFargoCharities,Loft,House,ishbusinesses—thissomeforfortheinitialtiveshomeimprovementcommunitythroughpreservationinitia-thanks,inpart,toan$40,000grantfromCity.ThatgrantallowsWestOrangeHabitatHumanitytoimprove16homesbeginningyear.Plus,velocalEmpireFin-Systems,Miller’sAlePilarsMartini&PublixSupermarketandtheWellsBuildsprogram—steppeduptosponsorhousesbeingbuiltbyOrangeHabitatforonCenterStreetCriswellCourt.
What are the most exciting milestones One Winter Garden has already achieved?
What can residents look forward to in the next 24 to 36 months?
Tanja: So many already have. Healthy West Orange, Shepherd’s Hope, Winter Garden Police Athletic League, Polis Institute, Eight Waves, West Orange Boys and Girls Club, West Orange Habitat for Humanity, and the Black Business Investment Fund.
Chloe: Our local churches have always been community advocates, in good times and bad. They are the real anchor in East Winter Garden, and we’re blessed that they are still committed to seeing this community grow in a positive way.
We must responsibilitytakeforourowncommunity.Wecannotsitaroundandexpectsomeonetocomealongandsaveus.Onlywecandothat.ThefirststeptowardchangeisorganizingandthatiswhatOneWinterGardenisdoing.
Learn more about One Winter Garden by attending their monthly meetings, 5:30pm the first Thursday of every month at Healthy West Orange, 1200 E Plant St., Suite 200.
Which businesses or community partners are you hoping to attract?
Jamie: Attending One Winter Garden meetings is critical. This is where we get organized and inform each other of things that are coming and initiatives we need to align out. Next, I would encourage more people from East Winter Garden to attend City meetings, and let them know we are ready and involved. The more presence we have within the government, the more the government will know and hear our concerns. If nothing else, fol-
What is the best way for residents of Winter Garden to get involved in these efforts?
it is critical that people from the community are encouraged and supported for the purpose. It is best when an economy is built from within, supporting neighbors, friends, and family.
A VIBRANT VISION This rendering proposes a small neighborhood-friendly business district located at the corner of 10th and Center Street, keeping history at the forefront.
Austin: Locally owned and operated! There are many powerful organizations involved already, but when it comes to businesses coming in to set up shop within the new development areas,
SEPTEMBER 2022 41
Tanja: When we work together, we can accomplish just about anything.
low us on social media and share posts. If everyone tells just one new person about the good things happening in East Winter Garden, the message will spread.
Chloe: Get out into the community and be the good! Volunteer with the organizations that are investing their time here. Challenge yourself to meet one new neighbor every month. Visit a new local business. I love what the plan outlines for the future, but real change is about getting involved.
42 The Local WINTER GARDEN
Mike Wright knows the scoop on what it takes to become number one in the No. 2 business.
HEATHER ANNE LEE FRED LOPEZ
SEPTEMBER 2022 43
ShBigMr.*t
pit bull with a lisp and a loose stool. A schnauzer with a memorable schnoz. A duo of dainty maltipoos with frighteningly large feces. Just another day in the life of Mike Wright.
44 The Local WINTER GARDEN
As the owner of The Poop Bandit, a dog poop removal service, it’s easy to picture Mike as a colorful mashup of your favorite Pink Panther characters: David Niven’s Phantom jewel (or in this case, stool) thief only to be foiled by Peter Sellers’ Inspector Clouseau—who literally steals the show (or, in this case, the shit).
“Well, that’s a loaded question. Pun intended,” Mike jokes. “Basically it started as a job for my oldest son and was named for my dog, Bandit. He— Lucas, not Bandit—was having a hard time nding a job when he turned 16, and I was like, ‘Well, why don’t we just create one?’”
esses, Hollywood producers, and Michelin-starred chefs. So how does one go from the jet-set life to— err, waste management?
That’s really where I got a lot of my hustle, my swagger. I never fell into the drug scene, thank goodness, but I certainly learned how to deal with all kinds of people —rich, poor, good, bad, liars, cheats, you name it. I would never in a million years want that kind of life for my own kids, but that experience de nitely gave me skills that I use every day. I can talk shit with the best of Mikethem.”isdeecting, of course, using his sarcastic, yet infectious sense of humor the keep the conversation light. Truth be told, it wasn’t an easy life. He left home for good at 19 and never looked back.
“I met my wife, Mandi, in 1993. I was 17. Engaged at 20, married at 22, and had our rst kid at 25. We’ve been together for 25 years now, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. When I decide I want
It’s real life. Not everything works out, you know?”
The parentsofestlyanythingfailed.onHemonkey.thatty.towentworkedmildly,”prettygrewfromoutstinct.furious,waybam!Tacos,pagebranding,plan,ITacoinandInesssuccessful.business,Michiganidea.saypartiallytheactivearoundhundredbusinesspooper-scooperwasoneofaideasbouncinginMike’shyper-brain,butitwasonethatwasalreadyvetted.“Ican’tthatitwasmyoriginalIknewsomeoneinthathadascoopandhewasveryRanthatbusi-for,like,20years.Sodidalittlebitofresearch,therewasnothingthearealikeit.SooneTuesday,mywifeandsketchedoutabusinesscameupwiththeandputaone-websitetogether.tequila,andthenWe’reinbusiness.”Thenagain,that’sjusttheMikeoperates…fast,andyingongutin-NoneofwhichseemsoftheordinarycomingaMidwesthustlerwhoupinDetroit.“Myupbringingwasstrange,toputithesays.“MydadforGMuntilhelegallyblindandhadretireonmedicaldisabili-That’stheworstthingcanhappentoagreaseItdestroyedhim.alwayshadstugoingafterthat,buthealwaysHecouldnevermakework,andhon-…Ithinkthere’salotpowerinwatchingyourtry,eveniftheyfail.
Mike continues, “But that’s me as an adult, after years of therapy, looking back. As a kid, it wasn’t a good environment.
Let’s be clear: Mike wasn’t talking about mowing lawns or washing cars. There was no trip to Publix to ll out applications. No. He was talking about creating a bona de incorporated company.
“It’s a crappy job, but someone has to do it,” he deadpans.Itwasn’t always this way. Mike was once a professional talent manager, rubbing elbows with heir-
A
O cially, I got my license at 14, but I was driving my dad around at 10 or 11, running errands for my uncle who had a chop shop. Straight-up stolen cars, drug deals, illegal parts, gangs, total movie shit.
SEPTEMBER 2022 45
THE WRIGHT STUFF Mike and Mandi Wright with Lucas, Stella, and Phoenix.
To be struggled.saynicerThere’spickI’mandfortogaveaHereidentityawashonest,totallyIhavingmassivecrisis.Iwas,guythatadvicebillionaires20years,nowgoingtoupshit?nowaytoit.Ireally 46 The Local WINTER GARDEN
“I was reeling from the partnerships and didn’t trust anyone, so I basically became an thathighandcelebrities.HollywoodThetalkingwonderful,workreallyaayounoseintoconsulting,Eventuallyandrunmeaires.talentconsultant,independentaheadhunterrecruiterforbillion-Theywouldcometolookingforpeopletotheirhomesorestates,I’dndthepeople.thatgrewintowhereI’dgotheirestatesanddiag-theirstaissuesand,know,helpthemwithbattleplantoxit.”“Thosethreeyearswerelotofwork,butitwasfun.Imean,Igottoandconsultforsomehigh-pro-lepeople.OnedayI’mtoGeorgeLucas.next,I’mdealingwithproducersandItwasexcitingchallengingandreallypressure,everythingIloved.”
clients, mostly friends, but that was it. I was in the shit, literally, with my other company, and didn’t have the time or resources to put intoForscooping.”morethan a decade, Mike’s primary business was running Domestic Estate Management Association, an association for personal chefs, butlers, estate managers, nannies, personal assistants, and such. DEMA connected high-quality, vetted service people with high-net-worth families.
realized we were spread too thin. So that’s when we decided to double-down and bring on an investor. It was a real-life version of Shark Tank, only not as fun,” he says. “The investor started stealing money from the organization within about six months, and the whole thing just mushroomed into a big, messy divorce in 2017. Friends I had for a decade. It was heartbreaking.” Fresh o the heels of that debacle, Mike transitioned into private service.
Sh*t in the Dark
But polishing that turd wasn’t an overnight a air. “Lucas just wanted to make enough money to pay for his car insurance, gas, and have a little bit of cash in his pocket. So he had a handful of customers, probably like eight or so, and that was it. Then when he graduated high school and went into the Marine Corps, the company just limped along,” Mike says. “We kept a handful of
Founded in 2007, he and a partner built the company from scratch, growing it from just a handful of members to 22 chapters with 5,000 members throughout the U.S., one in Monaco, and one in London. “By 2016, we were poised to expand even further but
something, there’s no stopping me,” he laughs.
If you told Mike 25 years ago that his family and livelihood would be dependent on dog shit, he would have said you were full of just that. Well, he still would actually, but that’s the fun of it.
SEPTEMBER 2022 47
And if there’s one thing Mike knows, there is always a brighter side to every shitty situation— or, at least one that smells better.
ahusbandbeingfamily,abytheconqueredforthingButwhoThat’sOfdollars?aandtheconquerworldmakemillioncourse!justIam.here’stheIknowsure—Iworldhavinggreatbyagoodandgreatdad. 48 The Local WINTER GARDEN
Like most of the world, Mike just hung out for a bit. “I did what everyone else did, watched Net ix and gained 30 pounds,” he jokes. “But it was pretty clear to me after the rst month that COVID wasn’t going away. I’m not one to just sit around, either. I go stir crazy if I’m not working on something.”
Calling the Sh*ts
These days, the King of CaCa has a warehouse, three trucks, nine employees, and a six- gure business. But his blood pressure is dangerously high, and he’s wondering what it all really means.
“It’s a cliche, I know it. I’m 46 … it’s a mid-life
For the same reasons it made sense for his son
In September 2022, two years after landing his rst really big, shitty contract, the Poop Bandit has one last hill to climb.
Do I still want to
“Do I still want to conquer the world and make a million dollars? Of course! Will I build another business? Probably. That’s just who I am. But here’s the thing I know for sure—I conquered the world by having a great family, by being a good husband and a great dad. I didn’t spend 70 hours a week for 40 years working for someone else’s dream. I spent 70 hours a week building my dream, on my terms, for my family. That’s conquering the world.”
So, he decided to revisit the old Poop Bandit concept. “Believe it or not, we still had a handful of clients, so it was time to decide: Am I going to let this company die, or am I going to put in the e ort? I still believed it was a great idea, with untapped potential in this area, but to be totally honest, I was having a massive identity crisis. Here I was, a guy that gave advice to billionaires for 20 years, and now I’m going to pick up shit? There’s no nicer way to say it. I really struggled.”
crisis. I lost everything in 2017, and spent three years re-evaluating my life, my purpose as a man, as a husband. All of that really humbled me in a way that let me look at my kids, and I have to tell you … Lucas, Phoenix, Stella, they’re my greatest accomplishment. So … why am I stressing out so much? I turned shit into a lucrative business, for god’s sake. Why do I feel the need to reinvent myself yet again?”
to do it in 2016, it made sense to Mike in 2020: low overhead, high potential. So, in the end, getting over that mental hurdle didn’t require a therapist or psych degree. It just required doing the work. And landing his rst really big account that fall. Then his second by the end of the year. And with each success, any personal issue he had with scooping diminished. “If you can’t laugh at yourself, right?”
And then COVID hit in March 2020, and it all just … stopped. Mike’s private practice went from thriving to dying. “Obviously, no one was hiring,“ he says. “Especially with the wealthy because they didn’t want people coming in and out of their home any more than needed. It was like a water pump getting shut o .”
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eady for a hard truth? At some point in their lives, almost everyone will require some type of long-term care, whether in-home or in a hospital. Rebecca Lanterman sees this on a daily basis. While running her business, Winter Garden Senior Home Care, Rebecca has seen rsthand the toils and hardships that develop when it comes to caring for an aging person. They’re stubborn. They’re confused. And most importantly, they do not want your help. However, there are things you can do to make caring for your loved one easier.
When it comes to caring for aging loved ones, Rebbeca Lanterman wants you to know what not to do.
Using her many years of experience, Rebecca has compiled a list of don’ts when it comes to caring for an aging adult.
1. Don’t make promises.
“You have to be realistic about the quality of care that you provide. I have seen sons and daughters start to lose parts of themselves because
50 The Local WINTER GARDEN
they made an unrealistic promise many years ago; they could not foresee the situation that they are [now] in.” Things happen, realistic.”hope,toowehopingWeiswaydon’t.youunfortunately.“Don’tmakepromisescannotfulll.JustIdon’tknowanicetosaythis,buthopeadouble-edgedsword.spendsomuchtimeforthebestthatfailtoplan.Peoplewaitlong.Youcanstillhavebutyouhavetobe
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“It is most important to have the di cult conversation and put a plan in place before they can no longer do that. It is important to educate them about long-term care options. Every single one of us is going to reach a point where we will likely need help, but we don’t like to talk about it. And people can need help, but because they and their kids don’t talk about it, it remains a big secret. Because of this, people are su ering in silence.”
“Here’s where we need to delineate the roles of the family members because burnout will destroy a family. We need to share the responsibility,” RebeccaOftensays. sons and daughters may feel as though they must take on the task of caring for their loved ones by themselves. This can then create resentment within the family,
4. Don’t feel shame.
2. Don’t wait too long.
Oftentimes, Rebecca nds that there are just too many misconceptions about aging. “Not everything is just a ‘normal part’ of getting older. In some cases, symptoms can be slowed down with nutrition, diet, and exercise, but in some cases, they can’t. Every situation is di erent, and that’s not accounting for plain old rigidity and stubbornness.” Rebecca says, “Sometimes we have to adapt to their journey, meet them where they are. That can be hard
“There is nothing shameful about needing help! The physical, emotional, and nancial health of the caregivers is often as important as the one you’re focused on,” Rebecca says. Like the saying, you can’t give water from an empty well, you can’t make good decisions from a place of mental and thecanFocusprofessionalororyouyouexhaustion.emotionalEventhoughlovethisperson,maynotbeadoctoraphysicaltherapistanutritioncoachoralaunderer.onthethingsyoudo,andndhelpforthingsyoucan’t.
for family members to accept, or to navigate, but there is no shame in that either. We can’t make promises about things that are unrealistic because our expectations do not t their reality.”
Talk early, talk often, and be clear with your intentions, certainly about caregiving, but also heirlooms. “Rather than waiting until someone dies to decide who gets grandma’s ring, the time to do that is early on, when they rst get care or even before.
The memory isn’t the ring, it’s the story of the ring, and grandma must get to share that story in her own voice. So, take the time to invite those conversations now, not at the eleventh hour … invest in this time with real love
as the overwhelming task becomes much greater than they initially may have realized. “I see this every single day… Neither one can really care for the other, but [they pretend that] everything’s ne.” Rebecca grimaces. “It’s not ne. Which is why you need to ask for help, professional help.”
Oh Well!
5. Don’t hold back.
52 The Local WINTER GARDEN
3. Don’t do it alone.
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“Dignity. That’s so important,” says Rebecca. “It is important to be able to give them quality in the days they have left. Once you lose the feeling of dignity, you start to lose your feeling of self, and this happens silently. We don’t see it Rebeccacoming.”pauses. “It sucks, there’s just no other way to say it. But at some point, we’ll all go through some version of this. There’s no reason to do it alone.”
SOURCE: NATIONAL CENTER FOR HEALTH STATISTICS
54 The Local WINTER GARDEN
WELLNESSCOUNTS
The number of seniors in day-based caregiving in the US.
Oh Well! and companionship. This also eliminates any of the potential misconceptions that often arise after it is too late.”
55%
The proportion of assisted living residents who are 85 or older.
286K
Finding the right mix of welfare and happiness takes some time and is a dynamic condition that will change over time, perhaps even day to day. Don’t worry or stress out. Remember, you are not alone. Staying informed, considering their happiness and comfort, and making use of as many supportive resources as possible, is the best approach when caring for elderly parents.
In other words, have a plan prepared. Whenever these types of situations arise, there must be a transitional phase for everyone involved. Rebecca urges everyone to have a plan in place long before it should be needed.
“People have to talk about it; people have to have a plan. You can’t decide once someone is diagnosed with a terminal illness, or once the caregiver is injured.”
Ultimately, we all take on some type of caregiver role with elderly parents, even if we don’t live with them or provide daily care. As mom or dad, they once devoted their time and energy to our well-being; now, as adult children, we nd ourselves doing the same for them. No matter how you look at it, caring for elderly parents means making sure they are safe, happy, and taken care of with the dignity they deserve.
Even professionals like Rebecca aren’t exempt
$63B
70%
The monthly average cost of assisted living. Nursing homes cost nearly $9,000 per month.
The proportion of seniors who will need some type of long-term care.
SOURCE: NATIONAL CENTER FOR HEALTH STATISTICS
from this advice. “As a family, we had talked about this forever, so, when the time came with my mom, I was like, ‘OK, I’ve read this chapter already. I know where we’re going now.’ But it was still hard, and there were still bumps in the road. Things didn’t go as planned, but because we talked about it, we had a general idea of what my mom wanted.”
6. Don’t go into it blind.
The problem, she says, is that people don’t talk about the issue. It is easier to ignore it, push it aside. “It’s going to happen to all of us; why ignore it? There are lots of things you can do ahead of time: contacting home care agencies, contacting the local funeral homes, contacting attorneys. Also, it puts people in the mindset that ‘this is the way I’m going; this is happening on my terms.’” This makes for an easier transition into adjusting to long-term care. Plus, having these precedents set in place long beforehand eliminates any unwanted situation that may come up.
SOURCE: GENWORTH
The amount in out-ofpocket expenses paid for long-term care in the US in 2021.
SOURCE: GENWORTH
$4K
SOURCE: GENWORTH
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Local realtor, Ariel Ivey usually likes a good red wine. But to mark her 32nd birthday she was in the mood for something … special.
Eats+Drinks
56 The Local WINTER GARDEN
TARIN SCARBROUGH FRED LOPEZ
evening come together. Some people left the tiniest amount lingering, and in another non-Covid world, I might have been tempted to follow behind and drink the remnants of their glass; that’s how much I appreciate amaro. An Italian after-dinner digestif, its herbal tones and slight bitter palette help clean o any lingering avors to cleanse the palate and leave a bittersweet nish. Fernet Branca is a favorite. I don’t judge the hipsters who drink it; it’s delicious! However, my wild card choice is Cynar (CHEE-nar), an amaro derived from artichokes that is slightly sweeter than the typical, so it’s more approachable and less aggressive. Bitter is in (think IPAs, black co ee, kale), and amaro is an impressive way to jump on theSure,wagon.there are other standout spirits that should be on your must list—absinthe certainly comes to mind—but truth be told, for me, the epitome of that
These bucket-list beverages can turn an ordinary evening into a special occasion, if you let them.
Aquavit is a spirit from Scandinavia that deserves to be on the front of every bar nationwide. Like gin or vodka, it’s a neutral grain spirit that is separated by one characteristic—caraway seed. It’s like rye bread in spirit form. Usually adding in dill seed, fennel, coriander, citrus, and anise, it’s an explosion of avor that will make normal vodka seem bland and mundane. Dill, in particular, gives Aquavit a briny avor similar to pickle juice, which
Once Open a Time
SEPTEMBER 2022 57
Just recently I went to a cocktail-paired dinner at Market to Table, and they shocked me when they paired a surprise dessert course with a shot of amaro. It really made the entire
simplify my cocktail and enjoy something exclusively on its own. I gravitate toward pours that have so much charm they don’t require other avors. And there’s really nothing more beautiful than enjoying a spirit purely as God—or the tastemakers—intended. So for this issue, in celebration of our once-in-a-lifetime milestone, I curated a list of beverages that you deserve to imbibe at least once.
Likewise is my love for a brand hailing from California called St. George Spirits. If you come across anything from them … just buy it. St. George distills many a spirit—gin, whiskey, even a Green Chile Vodka—but nothing holds a candle to their signature liqueurs. They are so stunning on their own, I could drink every one of them by themselves. This isn’t a sponsorship or anything, I just rarely nd standout brands that make such exemplary products in every category they produce.
is an alternative to a dirty martini, one you can drink straight from the bottle. My friend, Brandon, a lover of obscure spirits, introduced me, and anytime I can convince someone to try it, they always come back looking for more.
once-in-a-lifetime experience is a fantastic bottle of rosé. You will never regret the time you celebrated a moment by opening that fancy pink bottle of bubbles, I promise you. I just know if I’m having a commemorative moment, I’d like something bubbly in my hand and I’d prefer it to be pink. With that being said, there are three brands that hold true to me—Billecart Salmon, Ruinart, and Taittinger—that will always be worth it. They leave a satiny mousse, almost pastry cream-like note contrasting against the red fruit and dry acidity, that others just can’t emulate. One night, my mom and I popped a Billie Rosé just because it was a hard Tuesday … and I will never forget that night. It will forever be ingrained in my brain. Sometimes the best in life deserves a cheers that requires only one pour, and for that, there’s always a ery-pennyly-priced-but-worth-ev-ridiculous-rosé.
Eats+Drinks 58 The Local WINTER GARDEN
So I popped into The French Café and perused their Savory Crepes menu. Resisting the call of the sweet menu just to the left, I settled on the “Alpine.”
I strive to finally answer the question that literally no one is asking: What is a crepe?
I imagine the name of the dish isn’t because of the adorable little meat mountain in the center, but it’s what came to my
RHEYA TANNER FRED LOPEZ
here are very few things about which I consider myself a traditionalist, but one of those few things is breakfast. I take the ing,know“intermittentatis,fruits,ofdessert-for-breakfastall-Americanroutesyrupypancakes,juicyandfruityjuice.ThatifIevenhavebreakfastall(thecoolkidscallitfasting,”butII’mjustlazy).Thisparticularmorn-though,wasdier-
QuestionCrepeThe
T
I never even considered a savory crepe the handful of times I’d had them. Since they were always smothered with strawber-
ent. I was hanging out around the Hamlin area and not only was I feeling unusually breakfasty, I was also feeling like a little adventure. I’d recently read somewhere that a true French crepe is rarely served sweet, especially when it’s breakfast.
ry sauce and stu ed with cream cheese, I assumed that, much like a pancake, they were just sweet.
SEPTEMBER 2022 59
Hey, remember when I said I was able to ignore the Sweet Crepes menu? I lied!
This is the “Delicious” crepe, with walnuts, bananas, and a drizzle of caramel on top. If you’re looking at this and thinking it’s literally a bananas foster for breakfast then you would, of course, be correct. But since it’s wrapped in a crepe instead of ice cream, you can tell people it’s lowfat.
I categorize the Delicious crepe as sweet, but not too sweet. Banana and walnut are relatively mild flavors, and the caramel is used sparingly as to not overpower.
mind. The garnish on top foreshadows what’s inside: prosciutto, bacon, potatoes, and Muenster cheese. And a zig-zag drizzle of hollandaise gives the whole thing a vibe
I know that u y, eggy French toast and the apjacks that act as a vehicle for chocolate chips don’t have the most tasteful taste pro les, but breakfast just doesn’t feel like breakfast without something super sweet. I know in my heart of hearts that I should be ordering a veggie egg white omlette or something, but I don’t like to feel sad before noon.
I couldn’t tell you whether Muenster cheese is the “correct” choice for this combination of meats, or even what exactly Muenster cheese tastes like. To tell you the god’s honest truth, I’m only about 80% sure that’s hollandaise sauce. But as someone who normally wouldn’t entertain a savory breakfast, I would—and very likely will, next time I’m in Hamlin—order a savory crepe again.
Did I nd out what a crepe actually is? Probably not. But I found out what a crepe can be. And that’s worth the adventure.
Flakesthoseorhaveprosciutto.climatedpalatetellchewed,lythecorner.Thencheeses,untouchedoaAlpinemyoughlyticsinconsequentialdetheitsit’sFrench.simpleIcrepebreakfasts,crepesborhoodit-classy.Toaster-Strudel-but-make-ofSinceI’mintheneigh-ofcomparingtoAmericanIwouldsayaisapancake-lite,ifwantedtokeepthingsandalsooendtheButfunctionally,morelikeanomelet,askeypurposeistoholdllingthatultimatelynesthecrepe.Iwasponderingtheseseman-whileIate(andthor-enjoyed,despiteinclinations)thecrepe,andsoughtcontrolsample.Islicedoneofthecorners,bymeatsorandtookabite.IslicedoanotherAndwhileIfeltslightlysoft,slight-spongytextureasIIreallycouldn’tyouwhatittastedlike.Itcouldbethatmywasalreadytooac-tothebaconandOrthatIdon’tenoughknowledgeawarenesstodiscernlittlesubtleties.IwasraisedonFrostedandfreezerpan-
It may very well be that the bold simplicity of the avors I grew up with has spoiled my taste buds for being able to appreciate a subtle avor. I’ve said it in the past: I am not a foodie.
cakes (tip: put the syrup on before you put them in the microwave; it’ll soak through while they cook).
And yes, I did eat both of these crepes by myself—but not at the same time. I packed this one up and brought it home for dessert. As the French intended.
Banana, Nut, No Mu in
Eats+Drinks 60 The Local WINTER GARDEN
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If there’s two things most people can agree on, it’s that a hearty plate of pasta is always a good choice, and the best place to get that fix is Cariera’s. Heavy with Italian tradition, Cariera’s features timeless favorites, such as spaghetti and meatballs to chicken Saltembocca, white Cacciatore to Eggplant Parmigiana. There’s even a lite menu featuring Keto versions of your Italian favorites! Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply feeding the family, Cariera’s strives to make every guest feel comfortable enough to laugh out loud, reminisce, and be indulged.
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If you haven’t soaked warm, garlic naan into velvety butter chicken sauce or scooped chana masala with tandoor roti, get ready to be delighted. Fresh, flavorful and well-priced modern Indian cuisine is finally here! This mouthwatering West Orange outpost glimmers with its roster of succulent tandoori, rice dishes, and fragrant curries—a world of vegetarian and non-vegetarian delights, each imbued with vivid seasonings that never lose their spark. You’re sure to be coming back naan-stopp.
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SERVED 11AM–3PM
The French Café
Do you feel like you’ve been transported to a cozy neighborhood café in Paris, sipping a French co ee while the smell of fresh pastries fills the air? You may be surprised to find you’re not in France at all; instead, you’re enjoying a meal at The French Café. Try our one-of-a-kind pastries baked fresh daily by our acclaimed chef. Join us for a relaxing breakfast on the weekend or stop in before that evening movie for a delightful dinner. We can’t wait to say bienvenue to you!
/ 407-347-5487 naanstopp.com
TRY ONE OF 4 PLATTERSLUNCH
Tues-Thu 5pm-9pm Fri 5pm-10pm Sat 12pm-10pm
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62 The Local WINTER GARDEN
EMPANADASSELECT BOGO!
Born in faith, created with love. That’s how John “The Take Home Chef” Kresl built his craveworthy Tres Amigos Salsa brand. And now there’s nothing more satisfying than to pair it with Chef John’s made-fromscratch, Tex-Mex-inspired platters, bowls and tacos. Choose from authentic carnitas, Certified Angus beef skirt steak, wild caught jumbo shrimp, USDA Grade A chicken, or seasoned local vegetables. All served with homemade corn or flour tortillas, pico de gallo, guacamole, black beans and rice. Do yourself a favor and order online—it’s the fastest way to get your fix.
Nestled in the Heart of Historic Downtown, Market To Table creates Modern American cuisine with classical influences. Chef/Owner Ryan Freelove’s seasonal dinner menu o ers a delightful mix of traditional, yet elevated, dishes, like the Filet Mignon or Braised Short Rib, along with an exciting array of specials. But it’s their new brunch menu that is truly buzzworthy. Come for the humongous Bloody Deluxe, Pork Belly B.L.T., and Steak & Eggs. Stay for the giant Cinnamon Roll and Bread Pudding French Toast. Before you leave, you’ll be making dinner reservations. It’s just that good.
Tres Amigos Grill
1025 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden / 407-614-3975 tresamigosgrill.com
HOURS Mon-Sat 11 am-8 pm Sun Closed $5OFF ORDERSONLINE W/COUPON CODE: LOCAL VALID ON ORDERS $30 OR MORE
146 W Plant St, Winter Garden / 407-395-9871 market2table.com / Private Dining Available
DINING GUIDE I Eats+Drinks
JOIN US BRUNCHFOR Weekends 11am–2pm INFO HOURS DINNER Tues-Sat 5PM-9PM BRUNCH Sat & Sun 11AM-2PM SEPTEMBER 2022 63
Market To Table
Sat:Mon-FriSun:11AM-9PM12-8PM
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Thai Blossom
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Pammie’s Sammies
Fri 11AM-8PM
Sun 11AM-3PM
Recognized by The Orlando Sentinel and Orlando Magazine for having delicious and ThaiA-gradecuisine.
Foodie Award Critic’s ChoiceOrlando Sentinel | Orlando Dining Awards- Orlando Magazine NO.1 BEST THAI RESTAURANT ORLANDO READER’S CHOICE ORLANDO MAGAZINE MULTIPLE INCLUDINGYEARS2021 64 The Local WINTER GARDEN
Lunch: 11AM-3PM
Tue-Thu 11AM-7PM
99 W. Plant St. Winter Garden / 407-905-9917 mythaiblossom.com
Dinner: 5PM-9PM
Eats+Drinks I DINING GUIDE
Fragrant curries and soups, silky noodles, stir fries, and grilled meats, with plenty of options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free diners, too—Thai Blossom serves some of the most delightful and crave-worthy experiences on Plant Street. Authentic, easy and always cooked to order, it’s the perfect choice for workday lunch, go-to dinner dates, and special celebrations alike. Experience our culinary flavors and your love of Thai will blossom.
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121 S. Boyd St / 407-730-3212 / pammiesammies.com
Sat 11AM-7PM
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. And yet, the Pammie’s Sammies Experience is more than just great food. Our goal is to create a vibe where everyone feels like family. Go ahead, come as you are. Rest your head, put up your feet, sing to the music, and talk with your neighbors. Eat with your hands, if you must! With food that is thoughtfully sourced, earth friendly, and tastefully adventurous, our menu is composed of old family recipes alongside new and tasty trends. Each visit delivers something new and di erent on the plate, perfectly paired with great tunes and better conversation among friends.
Buku Vegan Kitchen
Fri Sat12–6pm11am-2pm & 3-6pm Sun 11am-3pm
Fri & Sat 3pm-11:15pm
STK Steakhouse
DINNER
Tue-Thu 12–5pm
HOURS
ALSO TRY COFFEE OR KOMBUCHAFLIGHTS
LUNCHHOURS
Mon-Fri 11am-3pm
Sun-Thu 3pm-10:45pm
Tucked inside of Main House Market, Buku Vegan was established in 2018 to satisfy any cravings without animal products. Treat your taste buds to an authentic Haitian-inspired menu and heavenly desserts created by Chef Chicoye, daily. Cruelty-free and delectable shouldn’t be two separate concepts, rather, one that creates an appetizing union. Come in and enjoy our famous brunch and pair it with a delicious mimosas or kombucha!
ORLANDO 1580 Buena Vista Drive / stksteakhouse.com/venues/orlando/407-917-7440
$30 BRUNCHBOTTOMLESS MIMOSAS & BLOODY MARYS BRUNCH HOURS: SAT & SUN RESTRICTIONS9:30AM-3PMAPPLY We saved a space for you. thelocalwg.com/advertise SEPTEMBER 2022 65
AT MAINMARKETHOUSE
DINING GUIDE I Eats+Drinks
108 S Main St. Winter Garden / 917-740-2497 bukukitchen.com
STK is “not your daddy’s steakhouse,” o ering a high-energy dining experience combining the superior quality of a traditional steakhouse with a Vibe Dining atmosphere. Delectable cuisine, upscale cocktails, elevated Happy Hour and chic décor along with an in-house DJ, all come together to o er a memorable fine dining experience. The menu features reimagined classic American cuisine for lunch, brunch and dinner — the brand’s beef program focuses on the highest quality craveable steaks while emphasizing transparency and traceable sourcing practices.
Yeesh, this one’s kinda tough. Not that I don’t have anything to say about such a big milestone. It’s more a problem of what to say—the same problem I deal with every month. Is this story interesting? Is it funny? Am I appealing to the ~demographic~? Does my writing warrant a page in a local magazine? Does it deserve anything at all? What even is writing? Who am I? Why is everything spinning? God,no, not the spinning…
Reflecting on a year of issues. The print kind, I mean.
ReduxImpressionsWorst
refusal to learn how a fourway stop works; it all feels more and more like home.
O
Rheya Tanner muses on life as
Right now. Right this second. Uh … man, a whole year. Isn’t that wacky?
K, here we go, wrapping up the anniversary issue.
Rhetoric
a local 66 The Local WINTER GARDEN
Anyway! It’s a lot of pressure, is what I’m getting at, to craft the right content for the occasion. Especially since I’m not, shall we say, the Winteriest of Gardeners.
I like to think I’m not in this for clout (although I did submit this column for an award (that it didn’t even place in (and I’m. Not. Salty. About. It.))). But the acknowledgment that even one person enjoyed their time with my page? That they’re looking forward to the next one? That makes me feel something between great pride and sheer Becauseterror.nowit’s time to do it all again.
For starters, I’m too poor for golf cart culture. Bike culture is out, too, since Mako won’t t in a little picnic basket fastened to the seat like in The Wizard of Oz, which is obviously a dealbreaker. And while I’ve befriended a couple other younger folks, I’m nowhere near cool enough for the Axum crowd (see previous yourtown.foundNevertheless,sentence).I’vestillaplaceinthiscozyYourcamaraderie,history,yourstalwart
And so I always try to do y’all justice by writing stu that’s worth a moment of your eyeballs. Your time is precious, to you and to the gazillion content creators currently jockeying for one solitary second on the Hell Rectangle in your pocket (or in my case, the aesthetically superior rectangle that is print). It’s precious to me, too, and I’m pretty damn delighted if you’ve used any of your rectangle-seconds on whatever I’ve had to say this year.
Every now and then, someone reaches out
because I wrote something that was worthwhile to them; they laughed out loud, or they related so hard, or they saw some topic in a new light.
Yummy House
dining
with traditional flavors. Up to $50 o check Monday - Friday, excludes holidays 10%OFF 8081 Turkey Lake Rd #700 Orlando, FL 32819 • 407-440-4979 • www.yhseafoodclubhouse.cominfo@YHSEAFOODCLUBHOUSE.com
Seafood Clubhouse is a seafood-centric resturant featuring Cantonese & dim sum cuisine. A fresh experience
INFO@ERICADIAZTEAM.COMERICADIAZTEAM.COM407-951-9742 theOne A HOME IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST PURCHASES YOU’LL EVER MAKE. WE’LL HELP YOU FIND If you’re looking to buy or sell a home anywhere in Winter Garden, trust Erica to go the extra mile!
