MY SANFORD MAGAZINE

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE SANFORD FLORIDA LIFESTYLE

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JUN–AUG 2019 • QUARTERLY

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SANFORD FLORIDA | SEMINOLE COUNTY

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Sanford's Positive Community Magazine

CHEERS TO SANFORD

BREWING COMPANY

Brewery Finds Success While Cultivating a Community

PLUS

DOWNTOWN SANFORD FOOD & DRINK MAP SEE INSIDE

SANFORD EVENT 365 LOCAL GUIDE 2019

Red Cottage

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LETTER FROM THE

EDITOR

Welcome summer! I love this time of year — particularly because my birthday falls during this time! Every birthday I give thanks to God for all of my endeavors, both personal and professional. I love my three grandchildren, my husband, my children and my family. I am also thankful for all of the friends I have made after living in so many different parts of the world. Of course that includes the friends I have made in Sanford!

It truly is one of those places where your new friends become lifelong friends.

In this issue we interview Diane Crews, president and CEO of Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). In the article that begins on page 12, Crews shares what it takes to run an international commercial service airport and spotlights some of the airport’s new destinations (Nashville!).

Also in this issue, our cover story (page 22) features the owners of Sanford Brewing Company.

This team truly knows what it takes to build a community. Learn how their successful brewery on Sanford Avenue has played a huge role in the fantastic growth now occurring in this part of town.

Other stories we are excited to share with you include a listing of fantastic city parks (page 18), a review of Sanford’s new tiki bar (page 29), and a roundup of unique family summer activities (page 32).

This issue we continue to grow our reach with additional distribution areas in several hotels located in Seminole County, as well as Ace Cafe in Downtown Orlando, Sanford Brewing in Maitland,

This 4th of July, don’t forget to catch Sanford’s spectacular Independence Day celebration along scenic Lake Monroe. Find a seat along the Sanford Riverwalk and watch the sky light up with fireworks. We wish everyone a wonderful 4th of July!

If you haven’t been to Sanford before, do not miss the opportunity to visit our city this summer! In our welcoming community you will not only find bars, restaurants, and unique craft breweries, but also wonderful parks, museums, a historic community and much more. We hope this edition of My Sanford Magazine helps you find the best places to be this season. See you around town!

ESTABLISHED 2014

VOLUME 5, ISSUE 3

SUMMER 2019 | QUARTERLY

This Issue was published by MY SANFORD MAGAZINE LLC, with project management by:

Editor in Chief & Founder Perla B. Crosby

Digital Marketing Director Brian R. Ambrosini

Managing Editor Julie Capps

Social Media Specialist Diana Nuñez

Art Director Renée Blair

Contributors: Robert Beall Kenne Brown Julie Capps Amber Clore Rhonda Deaton Kevin D. Gardner Lisa Holder Claudia Mundlos Drink Sanford

Photographers Kelly Clore with kabiki photography JP Photography Cover Photography Kelly Clore with kabiki photography

WRITE TO US | ESCRÍBENOS A EDITOR@MYSANFORDMAGAZINE.COM Perla is the founder, Editor In-Chief and publisher of My Sanford Magazine. Her goal was to produce a local magazine that would foster unity and promote good will in Sanford’s culturally diverse community. This was accomplished and the magazine has been declared a resounding success. Perla also conceived and brought to fruition the Sanford Tourism Office and serves as its first Chairperson.

Proceeding her long career as a Diplomat in Rome, Italy, she served as the Director General of Tourism in Italy where she also founded a successful tourist and business magazine.

My Sanford Magazine disclaims all liability for any and all advertisements, promotions, articles, and other affiliated content contained within this publication. The opinions of the authors are those alone. We do not accept any liability for information or advice provided by any advertiser, sponsor, or associated business provided in this magazine.

PROUD MEMBER OF:

ON THE COVER Sanford Brewing Company partners inside their brewery (l-r): Allan Jackson, Chris Esser, Robyn Esser, Bo Hallowes Photo Credit: Kelly Clore with kabiki photography

FOLLOW US: ADVERTISING: 407.801.3432 advertise@mysanfordmagazine.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS COMMUNITY & PEOPLE

FOOD & WINE

LIFESTYLE

4

6 10 12

18

22 A Toast to Sanford Brewing Company 24 Sanford Food & Drink Map 29 Drink Sanford: In the Tiki Room

32 33 34 36

Coach Kenne Brown Reflects On a Memorable Championship Season Sanford’s Best Asset Then and Now: Historic Hopper Academy Getting To Know: Orlando Sanford International Airport President & CEO Diane H. Crews A Guide to Summer Fun in Sanford Parks

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Summer Days Are Made For Exploring!

Moving Millenials Calendar 365 Be Social: Laura van de Berg’s Tea Party

BENEVOLENCE PHOTOGRAPHY

Crayola Experience in Florida Mall-Orlando, and Mockingbird Apothecary in Longwood. We plan to spotlight each of these businesses through our social media so be sure to follow us! Also be sure to check out our exclusive Foodie Map. It is sure to be helpful to anyone who wants to learn about the fabulous dining experiences found in Sanford.

CARTA DE LA

EDITORA

¡Bienvenido, verano! Me encanta esta época del año, sobre todo, porque cumplo años en esta fecha. Y en cada cumpleaños agradezco a Dios por todos los logros obtenidos, tanto en el ámbito personal como profesional. Amo a mis tres nietos, a mi esposo, a mis hijos. mi familia, mis amigos y Sanford! También doy gracias por todas las amistades que he ido cultivando en las distintas partes del mundo en las que he vivido.

Por supuesto, ¡no puedo dejar de incluir aquí a todos los amigos que he hecho en Sanford!

Realmente es uno de esos lugares donde las personas con las que creas amistad se convierten en amigos para toda la vida.

En este número hemos entrevistado a Diane Crews, presidenta y directora ejecutiva del aeropuerto Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). En el artículo que empieza en la página 12, Crews comparte con los lectores qué es lo que se necesita para gestionar un aeropuerto internacional con servicio comercial y destaca algunos nuevos destinos (¡por ejemplo, Nashville!). Además, en esta edición, nuestro artículo de portada (página 22) nos da a conocer a los propietarios de Sanford Brewing Company.

Un equipo que realmente sabe qué hace falta a la hora de crear comunidad. Conoceremos cómo su exitosa fábrica artesanal de cerveza, ubicada en Sanford Avenue, está jugando un papel muy importante en el fantástico crecimiento que se está produciendo en esa parte de la ciudad.

Además, nos complace compartir con ustedes otras historias en esta edición de la revista; por un lado, les traemos una lista de los parques más sensacionales de la ciudad (página 18), una reseña del nuevo bar tiki de Sanford (página 29) y un resumen de propuestas únicas y singulares para disfrutar de un verano en familia (página 32).

Gracias a las nuevas áreas de distribución que hemos incorporado, MySM continúa expandiéndose. De esta manera, ahora también nos leen en varios hoteles situados en el condado de Seminole, en el Ace Café en el centro de Orlando, en el Sanford Brewery en Maitland, en Crayola Experience en Florida Mall-Orlando y en Mockingbird Apothecary en Longwood. También puedes consultar nuestro exclusivo Mapa para los amantes del foodies. Este mapa es muy útil para quienes quieren conocer los fabulosos negocios que tenemos aquí, en Sanford.

Y este 4 de julio, no te olvides de la espectacular celebración del Día de la Independencia en el espléndido lago Monroe de Sanford. Acomódate a lo largo del paseo Sanford Riverwalk y maravíllate de cómo el cielo se ilumina con la demostración de fuegos artificiales. ¡Les deseamos a todos un maravilloso 4 de julio!

Si no conoces Sanford, ¡aprovecha la oportunidad y ven a visitar nuestra ciudad este verano!

En nuestra acogedora comunidad no solo encontrarás bares, restaurantes y cervecerías artesanales únicas, sino también excelentes parques, museos, una comunidad histórica y mucho más. Esperamos que esta edición de My Sanford Magazine te ayude a encontrar los mejores lugares para esta temporada. ¡Nos vemos en los alrededores de la ciudad!

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Coach Kenne Brown Ref lects On a Memorable Championship Season On June 1, the Seminole High School’s baseball team, under the leadership of Coach Kenne Brown, captured its first FHSAA Baseball State Championship since 1992. The championship season marked the first year of coaching for Coach Brown since battling throat cancer a decade ago. In the letter below shared with My Sanford Magazine, Coach Brown expresses his gratitude and thanks to Dr. Connie Collins, the former principal of Seminole High School who retired this year.

Dear Dr. Collins, Never in a million years would anyone ever believe we would accomplish what we accomplished in baseball this season. The odds of us winning a state championship, let alone just having a winning season with a first-year coach, were never in our favor. However, when you were searching for a new head coach you had no idea that there was a candidate out there that not only believed he could make a difference in the lives of these players, but also believed he could get them all on the same page and win a state championship - if only someone would just give him a chance.

And you did.

Because you took that chance, I didn’t want to fail you.

I worked tirelessly in the fall, revamping a baseball complex that needed so much love.

My intention was to make this complex, named for my biggest mentor in life Mike Powers, a place that the players and fans were proud to call home. It took a lot of convincing of many people to let me cut and carve and 4 M Y S A N F O R D M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 019

de-fence and re-fence — to help everyone see my vision — but you never wavered on me.

Even when my mentor was up in arms about the changes I was making, you never said a word to me.

You believed in me and trusted me to do the right thing.

As the season approached and we began to put together the roster that would eventually become engraved in the stone of all-time great Seminole Baseball rosters, I saw a change within this baseball team that brought tears to my eyes; they gave me the greatest gift a coach could receive and that was their complete trust and faith. Coaches will sometimes coach a lifetime and only be able

to recall a few times that they can say without a doubt they have received this gift from their players. I had it only one time – in my final season as a head baseball coach in 1999 and I had to walk away from it for family reasons.

To receive it again in 2019 was to receive a confidence that would give me a greenlight that my boys were willing and able to do everything it takes to play this game.

It was the same feeling I had when you gave me this job.

When Charlie McDaniel made one of the most miraculous catches in the history of this sport at this school and my boys took to piling on top of each other on that mound in celebration of winning this FHSAA Class 9A

COURTESY PATRICK AUSTIN

I am not sure there are enough words to express my gratitude to you for bringing me back home to a place I am so fond of. Seminole High School and her rich traditions, both academically and athletically, are such an honor to be a part of.

The family of faculty and staff that accompany that honor is just icing on the cake. With little knowledge of who I was, or what I truly held dear to my heart, you took the word of the few who presented my name to you and took a chance that I might just be the right guy at the right time for this program.

State Baseball Championship, I just paused, and watched, and thanked God. I thanked God for all those that allowed me to be enjoying this moment. For all those who stood by me and encouraged me in my darkest times. For all those that believed in me to do the right things and allow me to pursue my passion and purpose.

I paused and thanked God for you Dr. Collins.

I was standing in that dugout at that time celebrating one of the greatest victories in our school’s history because you took a chance on a coach that many said the game had passed him by. That many said was too old to put in the energy and work to revive the program. That many said had a system that just wouldn’t work with today’s players.

But you said otherwise.

From the bottom of my heart, from my family’s heart, I thank you for the gift you gave me when you announced me as the head baseball coach of Seminole High School. It has been a life changing moment for me and I am forever grateful that you granted me this incredible opportunity. I will take away many memories of this memorable season but the very one memory that will always be first and foremost is the fact that you took a chance on me when no one else would.

Above, l-r: Commissioner Patrick Austin, Coach Kenne Brown and Coach Carlos Merlino; Bottom: Officers from the Delta Squad of the Sanford Police Department gave the State Champs an escort home

COURTESY PATRICK AUSTIN

My game ball goes to you Dr. Collins; for you are the reason for this season of baseball’s success.

In great thanks, Kenne Brown Head Baseball Coach Seminole High School 2019 FHSAA Class 9A State Champions MYSAN FORDMAGA ZI N E.COM | MY SAN FOR D MAGA ZI N E

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SANFORD'S

BEST ASSET A S E X P E R I E N C E D B Y R H O N D A D E AT O N

When I first arrived, a drive in Sanford’s downtown area was rather uneventful. Stores were closed, and the only activity was on the basketball court at Fort Mellon Park. Such beautiful weather, a waterfront community complete with a marina! Off I went on my first of many evening Sanford waterfront strolls. I was in awe at the opportunity to get up-and-close to the water; no obstructions, just miles of water kissed by the rays of the sun.

Sanford has grown through the years and now boasts a vibrant nightlife. Along the Riverwalk photographers can often be found capturing the perfect sunset, while walkers, bicyclists, and runners take advantage of the location’s scenic trails. It is also a popular spot for lovers to walk 6 M Y S A N F O R D M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 019

hand-in-hand while taking in the beauty of the waterfront. There’s something magical about a Sanford sunset; the sparkle on the water, sailboats in the distance, the anticipation of nightfall. Or perhaps it’s the quiet thought that we can all begin anew with the dawning of a new Sanford sunrise!

A native Californian, Rhonda enjoys the adventure of travel, experiencing new cultures and identifying prospects for collaborative success!

Writing for My Sanford Magazine provides the opportunity to learn more about Sanford; it’s unique attributes, meeting new people and learning about their passions for personal and professional achievements.

REG BARNER (TOP); WAYNE BENNETT PHOTOGRAPHY (BOTTOM)

T

he first time I saw the soggy geography of Florida was from the window seat of my flight, descending to start a life in Central Florida five years ago. The topography was quite different from the dry, California dessert I had left behind. There was water everywhere, along with greenery, palm trees, birds and yes, my first alligator sighting was from the airport runway.

An avid walker, I always enjoyed an evening stroll. I would soon learn that my new home would provide for the most beautiful walking experiences in the world — Sanford sunsets!

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Bring your horses and livestock! The desirable equestrian neighborhood of Seminole Estates in Sanford is the right place for this life close to nature. It’s hard to believe that you can get this amount of privacy and live only minutes away from dining, shopping and entertainment as well as easy access to I-4, 417 and soon 429 - all while also being zoned for top rated schools.

Scan the camera icon to watch the property tour video!

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407.340.6458

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MYSAN FORDMAGA ZI N E.COM | MY SAN FOR D MAGA ZI N E

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8 M Y S A N F O R D M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 019

Citizens Bank of Florida has a Branch that is located in downtown, Sanford, Florida and is excited to serve the Sanford area. Citizens Bank of Florida has been in business for 73 years and started as a community bank in Oviedo servicing businesses in the citrus, celery and cattle industries and has grown to have branches in Oviedo, Winter Park, Longwood, Sanford and coming soon to DeLand.

Joe Deitz can help evaluate your capital needs and loan options.

Joe has many years of experience in lending and banking products.

Call today to experience the Community Banking difference.

Hannah Elvester has over 20 years of banking experience and is ready to help you with all your banking needs. Citizens Bank of Florida employees get to know their customers and put the word community in community banking.

Joe Deitz

Vice President Sales Manager

Hannah Elvester Vice President Branch Manager NMLS ID# 784006

www.mycbfl.com

MYSAN FORDMAGA ZI N E.COM | MY SAN FOR D MAGA ZI N E

9

THEN AND NOW:

I

t was once a centerpiece for the community, providing education for generations of young African American students in Sanford’s Georgetown neighborhood. Now, thanks to the hard work and dedication of members of the community, Historic Hopper Academy has been reborn as a community center and is a point of pride once again and an example of the value of historic preservation.

Hopper Academy, located at 1101 Pine Ave., was built in 1910, at the time one of the few schools in Florida designated to serve African American students. It initially admitted students up through 10th grade, and then, when Crooms Academy opened in 1926, it became a grammar school. For more than fifty years, until 1962, when it was replaced by newer elementary schools, Hopper dutifully educated the children of Georgetown.

A demonstration from the fire department at Hopper Academy, approximately 1950

The years after the school closed were not kind. The structure suffered water and termite damage and degenerated to the point that it was to be used for firefighter training in 1989. Thanks to the timely intervention of Charles Rowe, then the city community development officer, it was saved. Local residents began the effort to restore the school that year, but even after renovations began, some considered the building too far gone to be worth preserving.

Ownership of the building transferred in the early 1990s from Seminole County Public Schools to the Community Improvement Association of Seminole County, an organization set up to restore the structure. Since that time, the Community Improvement Association has secured grants from the state Division of Historical Resources and the City of Sanford to go along with more than $100,000 in additional donations to restore Hopper Academy.

Restoration work began in 2001.

Historic Hopper Academy prior to renovations (left) and now renovated (right)

B Y K E V I N D. G A R D N E R The roof has been replaced, along with the foundation and floor joists. Much of the latest work, such as painting, has been done by volunteers, and the restoration effort has benefited from the contributions of three Eagle Scout projects. Remaining work includes replacing the second-floor air conditioning unit and installing a chair lift for ADA compliance.

The St. Johns River Festival of the Arts is the first group to make use of the new Historic Hopper Academy, holding art classes there every Wednesday. The group plans to install a kiln behind the building for firing ceramics. The Seminole County Printmakers will soon take up residence as well.

The building is a piece of Georgetown history, and has been recognized as a local historic landmark in 1991 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2015. And it will soon house a collection of items for a planned Georgetown history room, Woodruff said.

The two-story, wood-frame building has since recaptured much of its former glory. Its peeling red paint has given way to a fresh coat of white.

Nearly all the siding on the first floor has been replaced, along with all the walls.

To learn more about Historic Hopper Academy or to donate to the restoration effort, visit hopperacademy.org.

The stunning original wood floors in the second-story auditorium have been patched and restored. “It took 193 patches to restore these floors,” said Art Woodruff, a city commissioner and member of the Community Improvement Association board.

Kevin D. Gardner is an editor, writer, and teacher. He lives in the Historic District with his wife, Katie, in a home built in 1926.

His interests include cooking, reading, and #sanfording.

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www.facebook.com/HopperAcademy; COURTESY KEVIN D. GARDNER (BOTTOM RIGHT)

Historic Hopper Academy

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M Y S A N F O R D M A G A Z I N E | CO M M U N I T Y & P E O P L E • 14

GETTING TO KNOW

GETTING TO KNOW Click to watch video of Diane Crews

DIANE H. CREWS

Orlando Sanford International Airport President & CEO B Y P E R L A B. C R O S B Y

Q: Please share with our readers a little bit about your background.

A: I was born and raised in Sanford, graduated from Seminole High School in 1973, and got married in 1974 to Rob Crews, to whom I have been married for almost 45 years. We have two daughters, two sons-inlaw and two wonderful grandchildren. Life has been very good to me!

Which doesn’t mean that I didn’t have to work very hard to get where I am today — quite the opposite! Having married so young, I delayed my formal education for 17 years, at which time I returned to Seminole State (then Seminole Community College), earned my AA and went on to the University of Central Florida for both my B.A. and M.P.A. in Public Administration.

Although I am working harder than ever before, I love this role and the airport environment! Every day brings new challenges and exciting opportunities, complex problems and multi-dimensional issues along with diverse strategies for resolution – I can seriously say I am never bored!

P: Por favor podrías compartir con nuestros lectores un poco acerca de ti.

R: Nací y crecí en Sanford. En 1973 me gradué en Seminole High School y un año después me casé con Rob Crews, con quien he estado casada durante casi 45 años. Tenemos dos hijas, dos yernos y dos nietos maravillosos. ¡La vida ha sido muy buena conmigo! Pero eso no significa que no haya tenido que trabajar y esforzarme mucho para llegar al lugar en el que hoy estoy. Todo lo contrario. Como me había casado tan joven, pospuse mi educación formal durante 17 años, momento en el que regresé a Seminole State College (entonces llamado Seminole Community College), y obtuve mi diploma.

12 M Y S A N F O R D M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 019

Más tarde asistí a la UCF para obtener mi licenciatura y una maestría en Administración pública. Comencé mi carrera en el servicio público de Sanford mientras estudiaba en la universidad. Once años después, una vez realizados mis estudios de posgrado, tuve la suerte de que me contratara el presidente del aeropuerto Larry Dale como vicepresidenta de la administración del aeropuerto internacional de Orlando Sanford.

Continué mis estudios, me convertí en una ejecutiva aeroportuaria acreditada en 2013, y después de una búsqueda a nivel nacional, la Autoridad aeroportuaria de Sanford me eligió para ser su presidenta, cuando Larry Dale se retiró en 2015.

Aunque estoy trabajando más duro que nunca, ¡me encanta el papel que desarrollo y el ambiente aeroportuario! Cada día supone nuevos desafíos

KELLY CLORE WITH KABIKI PHOTOGRAPHY

I started my career in public service at the City of Sanford while attending college. Eleven years later, after completing my graduate studies, I was fortunate to be hired by Airport President Larry Dale as the VicePresident of Administration at the Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). I continued my studies to become an accredited airport executive in 2013. Following a national search, I was chosen by the Sanford Airport Authority to succeed Larry Dale as President upon his retirement in 2015.

y oportunidades emocionantes, problemas complejos y multidimensionales, además de pensar en estrategias diversas para la resolución de los conflictos. ¡Puedo decir muy seriamente que nunca me aburro!.

Q: Elaborate on your global competency and how it benefits local and international passengers.

A: The world of aviation is indeed a global consideration. As the President of an international commercial service airport, our efforts must reflect the needs, trends and concerns of all passengers, from concessions and ground transportation to the physical comforts of the facility itself. That consideration is reflected in the ongoing terminal expansion that seeks to modernize the terminal facility, including the Federal Inspection Service (FIS) facility, in a manner that is comparable to other airports to meet the expectations of airlines and passengers alike.

P: Háblanos de tu competencia global y de cómo esta beneficia a los pasajeros nacionales e internacionales.

KELLY CLORE WITH KABIKI PHOTOGRAPHY

R: El mundo de la aviación es, de hecho, algo que se considera de manera global. Como presidenta de un aeropuerto internacional de servicio comercial, nuestros esfuerzos deben reflejar las necesidades, tendencias y preocupaciones de todos los pasajeros, desde las concesiones y el transporte terrestre hasta las comodidades físicas de las propias instalaciones. Y esto se refleja en la expansión actual de la terminal que busca modernizar las instalaciones de la terminal, incluida la del Servicio de Inspección Federal (FIS, por sus siglas en inglés), tal y como se ha hecho en otros aeropuertos, para satisfacer las expectativas de las aerolíneas y los pasajeros por igual.

Q: The airport has grown rapidly over the past years with the increase in tourism in our area.

What plans are in place to upgrade the airport to meet the needs of the multiplying destinations? What are the biggest challenges faced with this growth?

A: The airport is in the midst of a $65 million Terminal Expansion Project to modernize the facility for efficiency and functionality, positively enhance the passenger experience, and expand our capacity to keep pace with growing demand. The biggest challenges are to

maintain our unique character, remaining simpler, faster, better in the face of growth, and to continue to fund the necessary improvements to meet federal mandates and technology demands.

At present, one of the biggest challenges is effectively managing the project while continuing to operate as an international airport. I have to say that I have an amazing and very talented team and together, we are doing a fantastic job.

P: El aeropuerto ha crecido rápidamente en los últimos años gracias al aumento del turismo en nuestra zona. ¿Qué planes hay para mejorar el aeropuerto y satisfacer las necesidades de los destinos multiplicadores? ¿Cuáles son los mayores desafíos que enfrenta este crecimiento?

R: El aeropuerto se encuentra en medio de un proyecto de expansión de la terminal de 65 millones de dólares. El fin es modernizar las instalaciones en pro de la eficiencia y la funcionalidad, mejorar la experiencia de los pasajeros y ampliar nuestras capacidades para mantener el ritmo de la creciente demanda.

Los mayores desafíos son mantener nuestro carácter singular: la idea de hacer las cosas de manera más sencilla, más rápido y mejor de cara a este crecimiento, y continuar financiando las mejoras necesarias para cumplir con los mandatos federales y las demandas tecnológicas. En la actualidad, uno de los mayores desafíos es administrar el proyecto de manera efectiva mientras continúa operando como un aeropuerto internacional. Debo decir que tengo un equipo increíble, muy talentoso y juntos estamos haciendo un trabajo fantástico.

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Q: What achievements during your time at Orlando Sanford International Airport are you most proud of? And how important was it for you to build a legacy in your professional life?

a real difference in the world around me. That is critical to me. If my actions have created any lasting value, that is a measure of success to validate my own self-worth as well as my career.

A: As one of the largest public projects in Seminole County, the terminal expansion is absolutely one of the most significant achievements during my tenure at the airport. Another is the airport’s partnership with Seminole State College and Seminole County Public Schools. From that partnership, we have initiated our annual Aerospace and Aviation Day at the airport, with more than 6,000 attendees in its second year – which we believe makes it the 2nd largest aviation day in the U.S. We are all very proud of that partnership and resulting programs.

P: De todos los logros alcanzados durante tu tiempo en el aeropuerto internacional Orlando Sanford, ¿de cuáles te sientes más orgullosa? ¿Y qué tan importante ha sido para ti el hecho de crear un legado en tu vida profesional?

It’s not about consciously building a legacy, but more about making a distinct impression,

R: Tomo uno de los proyectos públicos más grandes del condado de Seminole, la expansión de la terminal es, sin duda, uno de los logros más significativos de mis años en el aeropuerto.

Otra es la asociación del aeropuerto con el Seminole State College y con las escuelas públicas del condado de Seminole. Desde esa asociación, hemos lanzado y celebrado

en el aeropuerto nuestro Día de la industria aeroespacial y de la aviación, con más de 6.000 asistentes en su segundo año (en lo que creemos que es el 2º Día de la aviación más grande de Estados Unidos). Todos estamos muy orgullosos de esa asociación y los programas que han resultado de ella.

No se trata de crear un legado de manera consciente, sino más bien de dejar una huella distinta, hacer una diferencia real en el mundo que me rodea. Eso es fundamental para mí. Si mis acciones han creado un valor duradero, esa es una medida de éxito para validar mi propia autoestima y mi carrera.

Q: What is the strategic view on promoting the airport? How do you plan to encourage Central Florida residents to choose Sanford over Orlando International Airport (OIA)?

A: The Orlando Sanford International Airport is a small-hub airport that offers non-stop flights to over 75 destinations. The most recent addition is a twice-weekly flight to Nashville.

Getting that word out to as many people as possible is key. We aren’t trying to make this a choice for residents. For the most part, we offer flights that are not offered at OIA. And again, our flights are all non-stop. That factor, combined with easy access, affordable pricing and good customer service, have created an environment that encourages people to fly who would never have considered it as a travel option before. I believe this is where we shine at SFB – creating new opportunities.

R: El aeropuerto internacional de Orlando Sanford es un aeropuerto pequeño que ofrece vuelos directos a más de 75 destinos. Se acaba de agregar un vuelo a Nashville dos veces por semana. Es clave que podamos difundir esto a tantas personas como sea posible. No estamos tratando de hacer de esta una opción para los residentes. En su mayor parte, ofrecemos vuelos que no se ofrecen en el aeropuerto de Orlando. Y, además, todos nuestros vuelos son sin escalas. Ese factor, combinado con el fácil acceso, los precios asequibles y un buen servicio al cliente, han creado un entorno que motiva a las personas a volar, aunque nunca antes lo hubieran considerado como una opción de viaje. Creo que en ese punto es donde brillamos en SFB, creando nuevas oportunidades. n 14 M Y S A N F O R D M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 019

KELLY CLORE WITH KABIKI PHOTOGRAPHY

P: Cuál es la visión estratégica a la hora de promocionar el aeropuerto? ¿Cómo planeas animar a los residentes de Florida central para que elijan Sanford en vez del aeropuerto internacional de Orlando?

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A GUIDE TO

SUMMER FUN in Sanford Parks

BY ROBERT BEALL Operations Manager, Sanford Parks & Recreation Department

Park on Park

A

FT. MELLON PARK

Located at 600 E. 1st St. and along the beautiful St. Johns River and scenic Lake Monroe, this park’s amenities include two lighted basketball courts, exercise stations and walking paths.

Activities for the family include a large fort playground area for the 5- to 12-year-old adventurers and a steamboat playground for the younger 2- to 5-year-olds. If you are looking to beat the summer heat, this park features Seminole County’s largest splash pad. The park

Centennial Park

also contains one large and six small pavilions that are available for picnics, company outings or hosting family reunions.

RIVERWALK

The Sanford RiverWalk is a paved bike and pedestrian trail located on Seminole Boulevard that is situated along Lake Monroe and currently runs nearly two miles in length. On a daily basis you can see people walking, running, biking and fishing. There are stunning views along the waterfront, especially during sunset hours with picturesque orange, purple and pink skies. Local wildlife can be found in abundance making a trip to the RiverWalk a great photographic outing. Relax at one of the many benches and

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swing pavilions while partaking of the view and learn about the history of Sanford on information kiosks found along the trail. Known as a popular gathering spot, the park always has lots of local residents around that can answer questions about the area.

CENTENNIAL PARK

Located at 400 S. Park Ave. is Centennial Park.

Rebuilt in 2017, Centennial has a beautiful lighted gazebo set back in the park which is perfect for small weddings or social gatherings.

The historic style of the architecture blends well with the surrounding neighborhood and the park also features grand oaks and landscape throughout. The nearby Bettye Smith Cultural

COURTESY OF SANFORD PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT

re you looking for things to do this summer in Sanford? The City of Sanford Parks and Recreation Department hosts a variety of park sites that the family can enjoy all summer long. With twenty-eight parks located throughout the City, and featuring a range of activities that include walking trails, playgrounds, workout areas, picnic facilities, fishing and even a pool and splash pad, there is plenty to keep you cool during those hot summer days. Enjoy our list of can’t miss city parks and create some great summer memories!

Arts Center provides a convenient location for weddings and receptions.

GEORGE TOUHY PARK

Nestled in the historic downtown district at 601 Elm Ave. is George Touhy Park. An eclectic park full of shade and serenity, the park serves as a quiet area to sit near the sounds of a soothing water fountain, do some light reading or stroll around the brick walkways learning about the different types of trees in Sanford.

PARK ON PARK

If you are looking for a shaded play area for the kids then Park on Park is an ideal location.

Considered a playground for all ages, the park is located at 800 S. Park Ave. and has a small shelter area, restrooms and green space to relax, enjoy and picnic.

JAMES DUNN PARK

James Dunn Park is a neighborhood park located at 2200 Bel-Air Blvd. that has a small pond and fountain. Home to several ducks and peacocks, the park is a quiet area to sit and interact with wildlife.

Ft. Mellon Park

GROVEVIEW PARK

Located in the Groveview Subdivision at 306 Springview Drive, this park has activities for everyone! Featuring tennis courts, basketball courts, areas for handball and pickleball, a walking trail, and a workout area, this park has something for everyone.

COURTESY OF SANFORD PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT

LEE P. MOORE PARK

This park is located at 106 Sweet Bay Drive and is a great area to exercise and explore. At this location you will find basketball courts, tennis courts, an area for pickleball, racquetball courts, a walking trail, an exercise area, a playground, two pavilions, and even a ballfield for kickball or softball. Lee P. Moore Park is open and currently being renovated to add even more exciting features for families. Look for the improvements to be completed by late fall of 2019.

Sanford’s public parks, along with our Florida sunshine, create fun summer, lifelong memories. Consider visiting the many city parks this summer, if not all year round, and start making those memories.

For more information regarding these parks, or for rental information, please contact the Sanford Parks and Recreation Department at (407) 688-5103.

Riverwalk

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milk teas • fruit teas • boba • waffles • tea parties we also have available space for events!

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COURTESY OF SANFORD BREWING COMPANY

FOOD & DRINK

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COVER STORY

T

he building was located in a neighborhood that had seen better days, as Robyn Esser recalls of her first visit to 400 Sanford Avenue in the Georgetown neighborhood of Sanford. Robyn and her husband Chris, along with their two partners Bo Hallowes and Allan Jackson, had been working diligently to open their new business, Sanford Brewing Company, only to have repeated attempts at previous locations fall through for what Robyn would term “the most bizarre reasons.” This particular building of interest had served as a storefront for Gatchel’s Cash Grocery back in 1930, and had housed many subsequent businesses since, ranging from a TV repair shop to a plumbing company. The building complimented its neighborhood only in the sense that it definitely needed some TLC.

SANFORD BREWING COMPANY

BREWERY’S SUCCESS HELPS REVITALIZE SANFORD’S ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT

BY JULIE CAPPS

22 M Y S A N F O R D M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 019

The corner of Sanford Avenue and East 4th Street, pre-renovations (above), and post-renovations (below).

By coincidence, Robyn and Chris had found themselves enjoying visits to recently opened Buster’s Bistro, which was located nearby. So when the deal came through for the property on Sanford Avenue, it seemed fortuitous.

And when Sanford Brewing Company officially opened in October 2016, not only was a successful business born, but a successful revitalization of an oft-deserted section of town began.

The city’s decision to invest in some road improvements certainly helped curate today’s rambling vibe. From 1st Street all the way down to 6th Street, the addition of scenic brick paving,

KELLY CLORE WITH KABIKI PHOTOGRAPHY (FAR LEFT); COURTESY OF ROBYN ESSER (RIGHT)

A TOAST TO

“It had been neglected,” says Robyn about this particular block of town. “The street was dark and was cracking. Nothing looked good.” It was a location where “you didn’t walk down there at night,” Robyn adds.

IT’S ALL IN THE NAME Every beer at Sanford Brewing Company has a unique story that goes along with its name.

Here are just a few:

KNOCKOUT STOUT

KELLY CLORE WITH KABIKI PHOTOGRAPHY (TOP); ILLUSTRATIONS BY GREG BRYLA & KRISTEN KOEHNEMANN (RIGHT)

prominent street lights and decorative planters diminished the area’s neglected look and invited visitors to take a stroll from establishment to establishment. Drop by the area on any Friday or Saturday night now and an ambience of good food and good times is easily palpable.

But if you ask around the establishments that have opened after Sanford Brewing Company, many would agree it has been the brewery’s concentrated effort to curate community among local businesses that has further propelled the area’s growth and activity.

From letting smaller breweries use their fermenters for brewing a new draft to lending a nearby restaurant a cup of sugar, Sanford Brewing Company seeks to be neighborly to all who choose to operate nearby.

“We don’t look at people as competition as much as facilitators to drive more business to the community,” says Robyn. “We think a high tide rises all ships.”

“I think that a strong community where people support each other, that makes the whole community feel closer and safer,” adds Robyn.

“It’s more productive and the financial and economic benefits speak for themselves.”

Sanford Brewing Company is certainly enjoying those economic benefits. The company managed to hit their five-year-plan in only 18 months. There are plans to open not one, but two new locations within the next two years.

The first location will be in Maitland, the second location soon following in Oviedo. Because state alcohol limits a company to nine operations total, the end goal would be to have eight tap rooms and one distribution center.

“I am extremely proud we have been so successful. We couldn’t be more startled,” says

Sanford Brewing Company partners (l-r): Chris Esser, Robyn Esser, Allan Jackson, Bo Hallowes

Robyn. “You open a business and you hope you are successful. We have been blessed.

Just overwhelmingly welcomed into the community and supported by customers.”

Sanford’s increasing number of pubs raises the question of whether the market can ever become oversaturated. But to the owners of Sanford Brewing Company, any new business is all good business. “Every brewery that has opened, every brewery that will open, they are going to make different beer. The experience in their taprooms will be different,” says Robyn.

“When you start having a concentration of like businesses you start thinking Asheville, Austin, Nashville, Portland. You start thinking a walking town,” says Robyn. “The people that come to town can go to five different breweries in walking distance and they’ll buy.”

Robyn and her partners at Sanford Brewing Company are excited to be a part of the growing community of Sanford and see the potential as limitless. “Sanford has so much to offer,” says Robyn. “We are very uniquely positioned to be the best thing outside of Orlando, or near Orlando, because we’ve just got so much going on and it’s authentic. It’s not Disney or Universal. It’s local people, small businesses, working together to build a community, to drive betterment for everybody.”

That community effort is certainly making a winner out of Sanford Brewing Company. Alluding back to her pervious sentiment that a high tide rises all boats, Esser says, “It doesn’t just rise the boat, it floods. And we’re riding the tidal wave, you know? It’s great! n

This oatmeal-based stout is named after Robyn’s great-grandfather Edward, who was both a wrestler and a bullfighter. The logo features a re-creation of an image Robyn has of Eduardo from back in his fighting days.

MY PRECIOUS Made with hops from New Zealand, this pale ale’s name alludes to a popular phrase recited by the character Gollum in J.R. Tolkiens’ “The Hobbit.” New Zealand served as the filming location for the most recent adaptation of this popular book. Partner Allan Jackson’s pet “Casey,” shown holding a gold ring in the featured logo, is a goffins cockatoo, which is also native to New Zealand.

PANTY DROPPER While the name sounds risqué, this fruity Belgian golden strong ale actually r efers to Robyn and Chris’s former weiner dog who oddly liked to collect and hide underwear throughout the household.

PRINCE GANON This Belgian IPA is named after the Sanford celebrity wild rabbit Ganon Gordon, who was a common fixture at bars throughout the entertainment district. The crown and royal title alludes to the beer’s imperial connotations, while the slogan adds even further details: “He liked it hoppy and a hare malty.”

LOST WEEKEND This imperial wheat beer features a pontoon boat on its logo, an homage to Robyns’ grandfather, who made the first pontoon boat in Highlands County. The name of the boat he operated: The Lost Weekend.

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By: Diana NuĂąez I recently began a journey to better my health and find alternative options for lunch and dinner. Who has time to work 9-6, workout and cook a healthy meal? I was introduced to Salata by a friend and decided to complete the Salata challenge for a week and this was my experience.

As I entered the restaurant their setup is extremely friendly and easy to get around. The restaurant has an industrial minimalist look with lounge areas and several seating options for all ages and physical conditions.

The restaurant has very modern sleek vibes and the employees make it welcoming and warm with big smiles and amazing service.

I found many options for salads and wraps with toppings and proteins.

Multiple teas were available at the pull of a tap lever. All the ingredients were fresh and the presentation was clean and appetizing.

They also offer catering, which I decided to bring into the office for a team meeting. Once again, I was very impressed with the presentation and the professional manner in which the delivery was conducted. All my coworkers were very impressed as well, stating they are all fans of Salata.

Later in the week, I decided to try the post workout meal from Salata at D1 facilities, which offers this option to their members. I have to say, after a workout, it really makes a difference to just grab one of these delicious wraps on your way out and not have to worry about making a stop.

By Friday evening after a long week of running around, my fiancĂŠ and I decided it was going to be the perfect occasion to stop by Salata before our movie night so he could try what I been talking about all week. Again, Salata has a new fan.

Salata has been a very pleasant surprise for us, from walking into the restaurant, to catering for the office, to ordering online, it has been easy, quick, and most important, fresh and delicious food every time.

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TIKI ROOM Thank you!

Summer’s Coolest Drinks Have Arrived in Sanford

L

eave your worries at the door and enter into an exotic locale right in the middle of Downtown Sanford. Let the bartenders at The Suffering Bastard hand you a rum cocktail in an anthropomorphic mug and fly you to a far-off Polynesian island, complete with a tropical and Asian-inspired menu from Da Kine Poke.

For tiki culture fans and rum lovers, having an authentic tiki bar on this side of Central Florida is kind of a big deal. The tiki resurgence has hit San Francisco, Chicago, New Orleans, New York, and now, finally, Sanford. Here’s what you need to know before you break out your old Florida kitsch and paper umbrellas.

TIKI HISTORY

Donn Beach opened the nation’s first tiki bar, Don the Beachcomber, in 1934 in Hollywood. It was the perfect place to display his souvenirs from his travels to Tahiti. Others, like Trader Vic’s in Oakland, California, shortly followed suit, serving a Depression and Prohibition-recovering population that wanted a drink and an escape. However, by the late 1960s, tiki culture began to wane. Fortunately, the appreciation for craft cocktails made a comeback in the 21st century and the American desire to escape reality has placed tiki once again in the mainstream.

DRINK SANFORD

TIKI STYLE

The tiki experience is all about sneaking away from the hustle and bustle of the daily grind.

Windowless spaces with thatch, bamboo, dark woods, and rattan create the foundation of a tiki bar. Walls are decorated with seafaring

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BY DRINK SANFORD

elements and fish float lamps dot the seemingly endless black sky above. Loud, yet tastefully patterned flowered-shirts and dresses are encouraged, but this is most certainly not an excuse to wear socks with your flip-flops.

TIKI DRINKS

Tiki drinks are primarily rum-based (but not exclusively), include juices and spices, and can often be on the boozy side. A select few tiki drinks are served in large bowls with multiple straws to be shared among friends. Some popular drinks for tiki beginners include the Painkiller, Navy Grog, and Mai Tai; and for those who prefer bourbon, the Port Light.

THE SUFFERING BASTARD

Located inside Tuffy’s Bottle Shop & Lounge at 200 S. Myrtle Avenue, The Suffering Bastard is a first-come, first-serve establishment with dozens of tiki drinks on the menu.

Enjoy our large open air taproom with a view into the brew house. Savor handcrafted beers, meads, ciders and specialty sodas.

Taste the fresh, locally sourced ingredients, made to order. Relish the sounds of our performing musicians. Soak in the quintessential southern hospitality, make new friends, discover history. Sit outside, enjoy the beautiful Florida weather with your furry friends. Bring you kids for mac ‘n cheese while you sip our handcrafted beer.

The interior is beautifully-crafted by scenic artist and tiki enthusiast Typhoon Tommy, who literally wrote the book on tiki decorating. For those paying attention, you may see some familiar items, like the shelving behind the bar from the former JAWS ride at Universal Studios.

The Suffering Bastard is the ideal place for a date night or a celebration with a small group of friends over a large punch bowl. Look them up at Instagram.com/SufferingBastardTiki.

Drink Sanford celebrates the craft, history, and the people on both sides of the bar in Sanford, Florida. Follow us on Instagram and check out our blog at www.DrinkSanford.com for more.

SUN 12p-9p • MON-TH 11:30a-10p FRI 11:30a-12a • SAT 12p-12a

LUNCH 11:30a-4p Weekdays

DELIVERY AVAILABLE 400 South Sanford Ave. • Sanford 407-732-6419 • sanfordbrewing.com

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BENEVOLENCE PHOTOGRAPHY

LIFESTYLE

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Summer Days Are Made For Exploring!

B Y M Y S A N F O R D M A G A Z I N E S TA F F

School's out for summer! Looking for some fun ideas to fill up the calendar? Check out our list of unique activities just waiting to be explored!

ALL ABOARD!

An excursion on Sunrail provides a variety of entertaining stops. Hop off the train at Winter Park and sample a Nutella Waffle at the Briarpatch, followed by a stop at the unique toy store Lighten Up! Extend your travel one stop further (Advent Health) and pay a visit to the nearby Orlando Science Center or Orlando Museum of Art. Feeling ambitious? Take the line all the way down to the next to last stop (Kissimmee) and stroll one block over to scenic Kissimmee Lakefront Park. This waterfront park gets you up close with nature and hosts large festivals on the weekends. For a train schedule, visit Sunrail.com.

SWEETEN UP!

Take your baking skills to the next level at The Sweet Chalet and let your creative side lead toward a sweet treat! The Sweet Chalet is becoming a preferred place for inspiration among bakers in Central Florida, with artists from over 47 countries visiting the store to conduct classes in the past three years. Learn about the science behind baking, the chemistry between mediums, and the engineering behind structure, texture and flavor that creates edible art.

Let owner Maressa Valentin and her employees guide you on steps you and the family can take at home to create fun pieces of art. Or sign up for one of her many camps and classes offered for both adults and kids. On July 7, learn how to create character balloon shape cookies. Designed for entry level participants aged 7 and up, this class will teach piping and icing techniques. Cost is $30 per person. Space is limited. A camp for teens is also offered in July. Visit TheSweetChaletShoppe.com to learn more. n

g Ever ythin

COOKIES!

CLICK TO WATCH

PLAY BALL!

Take the family to a Sanford River Rats game at Sanford Memorial Stadium.

The River Rats are one of six teams that compete in the Florida Collegiate Summer League, a wood bat baseball league comprised of college players seeking experience that prepares them for a career in major league baseball. A schedule of home games can be found at FloridaLeague.com.

ROCK OUT!

Take part in a large-scale version of hide-and-seek with the Sanford Rocks Facebook group. Join over 6,300 members as they decorate and hide rocks for others to find.

Clues are given on the Facebook page, with seekers posting confirmation of any discoveries. Visit facebook.com/groups/SanfordRocks to learn more.

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Summer Cookie Classes!

A Trendy and Unique Cake & Sugar Art Supply Store.

The Perfect Place to LEARN, DESIGN, BAKE, Get INSPIRED and SHOP for everything you need to create your next Sweet Masterpiece!

Classes Conducted by International Renowned Sugar Artists from Around the World

Ladies Night Out Classes!

Check our Facebook Page for Class Schedule

Kids’ Birthday Parties …and more!

The Sweet Chalet Shoppe 209 Bellagio Circle • Sanford, FL 327 71 321.363.4841 • TheSweetChalet.com ONLINE STORE OPEN 24/7

NEW SUMME R CLASSE EVERYTH S: ING LOOKS LIKE FOOD!

THE SWEET CHALET SHOPPE

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JUNE

SANFORD365 | MY SANFORD MAGAZINE

CALENDAR&EVENTS

2019

SANFORD

365

For the most recent event updates & even more events please be sure to visit www.SANFORD365.com or download the free Sanford365 Mobile App. Better yet, never miss a thing in Sanford and subscribe to our weekly email newsletter!

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9 | SUNDAY

11 | TUESDAY

BREWS, BOOKS & BIRDS 11am-3pm Tuffy’s Bottle Shop & Lounge 200 S. Myrtle Ave.

WILD ART & WINE 6:30-9pm Central Florida Zoo THURSDAY & Botanical Gardens 3755 W. Seminole Blvd. ALIVE AFTER FIVE Create a custom 5-8pm • Downtown Sanford

Join author and Sanford local Kendra Lott to celebrate the release of “Unique Eats and Eateries of Orlando.” Drink specials, live music and chicken dinner

by Shantell's...Just Until. Hosted

by Sanford365.

canvas at this event featuring wine, hors-d'oeuvres, and painting. Food, wine, and art supplies are included.

15

SATURDAY

SANFORD MARKETPLACE AT MAGNOLIA 10am-3pm • Magnolia Square • 200 E. 1st St.

14-30 | FRIDAY–SUNDAY

Held the second Thursday of every month, this event is Central Florida’s largest recurring monthly street party with live music, local artists, food and craft beer. Enjoy local restaurants, art galleries, gift shops, antique stores, nightlife and a variety of other unique businesses.

Special note: this event will not take place July or August.

SANFORD FOOD TRUCK FIESTA! 5-8pm 2nd St. and Palmetto Ave. Held the third Saturday of every month, this event features some of Orlando's best food trucks, accompanied with live music.

Kid and pet friendly!

THIRD SATURDAYS – SANFORD ART WALK 6-9pm • 230 E. 1st St. Held the third Saturday of every month, multiple venues showcase local talent and provide opportunities to meet visiting artists. Free.

Held every Saturday, this weekly farmers market features fruits and veggies, local hand and homemade goods, ambient entertainment.

21 | FRIDAY

22 | SATURDAY EDGE EFFECT:

THE SANFORD SHUFFLE 6-9pm Sanford Shuffleboard Courts 401 E. Seminole Blvd.

SANFORD AVENUE BLOCK PARTY 5-10pm Sanford Ave.

Learn how to shuffle the third Friday of every month. Courts open at 6:30pm with a singleelimination tournament starting at 7pm. $5 per person.

Sanford’s monthly weekend block party featuring live music, food, drinks, and vendors.

PURE A CAPELLA SOUND 7:30-9:30pm Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center 201 S. Magnolia Ave.

This preview event spotlights upcoming season partners including Phantasmagoria, The Ramblers, Sanford Gospel, Sanford Jazz Ensemble and the WDPAC Repertory Company.

FRIDAY

CRITICAL MASS SANFORD EDITION 6:30pm • Pedal Driven Co. 210 N. Park Ave. Gain awareness about cycling and the safety of cycling on the road. Ride starts at Pedal Driven Co. and ends at Deviant Wolfe Brewing for beers and fun.

34 M Y S A N F O R D M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 019

This iconic musical is adapted from the 1990 Academy Award winning film starring Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore. It follows the story of Sam and Molly, a young New York couple whose connection takes a shocking turn after Sam's untimely death.

19-23 WEDNESDAY– SUNDAY

ALADDIN JR. Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center 201 S. Magnolia Ave.

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SUNSET AT THE ZOO 5:30pm-Sunset Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens 3755 W. Seminole Blvd.

You are going to love this exciting stage adaptation of the THURSDAY legendary tale of the lovable thief with MOVIE CLASSICS AT On the third Thursday the heart of gold!

THE RITZ THEATRE: of each month adults For all ages. over the age of 21 can VERTIGO stroll through the Zoo 7:26-10pm enjoying live music, Wayne Densch refreshing beer and Performing Arts Center wine, and meet 201 S. Magnolia Ave. animals up-close. $5.

29 SATURDAY

Come see The Edge Effect, winners of MTV's "Top Pop Group" and Boyz II Men's "Next Great A Cappella Group".

SPECTACULAR, SPECTACULAR SEASON SHOWCASE 7:30pm • Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center • 201 S. Magnolia Ave.

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GHOST: THE MUSICAL Theater West End • 115 W. 1st St.

CELERY CITY CRUISERS 5pm • Sanford Riverwalk at the Flagpole Seminole Blvd. & Park Ave.

Come down to the Riverwalk and see classic cars cruise along the Riverwalk.

Held the last Saturday of every month except for November and December.

DRAFTS & LAUGHS COMEDY NIGHT 8-11pm • Celery City Craft • 114 S. Palmetto Ave. Hosted by Lesley Jo, headlined by Timmy Tyme, and featuring King Hooker and other special guests, this event has no cover, with drink and food specials on site. Dog friendly, rated R. Event also held August 15.

JULY | AUGUST

JULY

2019

4

5 | FRIDAY WEST FIRST FRIDAYS

6pm-12am • W. 1st St.

Deviant Wolfe Brewing, The Tennessee Truffle and Mr. Z's will offer new beer and food specials along with live music on the first Friday of every month. Also, The Tennessee Truffle will be offering an approachable pub menu.

THURSDAY STAR SPANGLED SANFORD

5-10pm Fort Mellon Park

Celebrate Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks display over beautiful Lake Monroe.

13 | SATURDAY

18 | THURSDAY

NEW YORK ROCKABILLY ROCKETS: SHAKE, RATTLE, AND ROLL

MOVIE CLASSICS AT THE RITZ THEATRE: THE SOUND OF MUSIC

7:30-9:30pm Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center 201 S. Magnolia Ave.

AUGUST

Come enjoy this performance featuring a unique twist on the roots of rock and roll, rockabilly, swing, blues, country, and surf rock music.

4

SUNDAY

17 | SATURDAY ORLANDO CONTEMPORARY CHAMBER ORCHESTRA PRESENTS LOCALS AND LEGENDS

7:30-9:30pm Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center 201 S. Magnolia Ave.

This concert features music by Troy Gifford and Randall Woolf. Troy serves as Valencia State College music department chair and is a highly regarded guitarist and composer.

His piece is entitled La Chupacabra after the "legend of the Caribbean/Latin American Yeti.”

365

SATURDAY

SANFORD'S GIGANTIC GOSPEL SHOW 7:30-9:30pm • Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center 201 S. Magnolia Ave.

Come enjoy the best of Central Florida's gospel talent.

7:26-10pm Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center 201 S. Magnolia Ave.

2ND ANNUAL SANFORD CADDYSHACK OPEN Mayfair Country Club 3536 Country Club Rd.

6

SANFORD

10 | SATURDAY

This tournament is open to anyone, not just golfers.

Scramble format. Teams are $350 for 6 members, and includes breakfast at the Mayfair Country Club (provided by the Colonial Room) and a post party with prizes at Celery City Craft with a BBQ dinner (provided by The Smiling Bison).

16-SEPT. 1 THURSDAY-SUNDAY

GET READY: A MOTOWN EXPERIENCE IF/THEN

7:30-9:30pm Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center 201 S. Magnolia Ave.

The soul-stirring melodies of virtuoso vocalists like Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin.

23 FRIDAY

LOVE YOUR SHORTS RE-WIND

8-10pm Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center 201 S. Magnolia Ave.

This event features winning movies from the prior year's Love Your Shorts Film Festival in a one day marathon day of short films.

All dates are accurate at the time of publication. Ensure you check with the individual or organization responsible for the event before making plans.

The publisher of this calendar is not responsible or liable for any expenditures you may incur related to your planning for or attending of the event.

Theater West End • 115 W. 1st St. If/Then simultaneously follows one woman's two possible life paths simultaneously, as she faces the intersection of choice and chance.

25 | SUNDAY SANFORD JAZZ ENSEMBLE SUMMER CONCERT 3-5pm Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center 201 S. Magnolia Ave. A volunteer community orchestra made up of a diverse group of musicians, dedicated to the preservation of the Big Band Jazz Tradition.

The band’s extensive repertoire covers a wide range of material from the classic swing era to contemporary jazz.

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BESOCIAL n LAURA VAN DEN BERG'S TEA PARTY Author Laura van den Berg was celebrated with a tea party on March 21 to commemorate the release of her latest novel, The Third Hotel. Hosted by Sarah Miller, the group gathered on the patio and enjoyed tea and refreshments while learning more about the book. Van den Berg is an accomplished author, and both she and her husband, Paul, teach creative writing at Harvard University in Cambridge. They are new homeowners in Sanford. What a wonderful addition to our lovely community.

Nancy Buck

JP PHOTOGRAPHY

l-r: Deb Caulfield, Caroline van den Berg, Laura van den Berg, Caroline van den Berg, (mother of Caroline and Laura), Sarah Nettles, Ginger Hoke, Sheila DiPace, Sarah Miller, Nancy Buck, Deborah Brittain, Morgan Aiken, Victoria McCausland Meyers and Robin Theisen

Sarah Miller and Sarah Nettles

Deb Caulfield and Ginger Hoke

Caroline van den Berg (center) with her daughters Caroline (left) Sarah Miller and Laura van den Berg and Laura

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