050621 SWB DIGITAL EDITION

30TH ANNUAL BEST MOM IN SOUTHWEST CONTEST! 

O 

The heartbeat of the community 

ORLANDO BULLETIN 

May 6 — 19, 2021 | Since 1986 

Huntington Learning Center 

Let the industry professionals help 

get your student back on track!

We’ve brought the doctors 

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www.SouthwestOrlandoBulletin.com x May 6 — 19, 2021 x 3

4 x May 6 — 19, 2021 x www.SouthwestOrlandoBulletin.com 

Michael J. Tortorella, MD 

Obstetrics & Gynecology 

Board Certified 

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Family Planning 

Menstrual Disorders 

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7300 Sandlake Commons Blvd. 

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next to Dr. P. Phillips Hospital 

Listed in Best Doctors 

in Orlando Magazine 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

SUMMER KIDS CALENDAR ................................................................. 5 

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE ................................................................. 15 


SOUTHWEST SEEN ......................................................................... 16 

Rotary Club of Dr. Phillips Paul Harris Fellows 

LIVING WELL ................................................................................... 17 

The Basics of Medicare 

The Importance of Mental Health Awareness 

Hope and Healing for the Heart 

Managing Recovery From "Long COVID" 

30TH ANNUAL BEST MOM IN SOUTHWEST CONTEST ...................... 24 

COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD ....................................................... 33 

SOUTHWEST SERVICE DIRECTORY ................................................... 34 

Guillermo J. Nazario, D.C. 

Nominate Your 

Favorite Teacher for 

Southwest Orlando Bulletin’s 

Teacher of the Month! 

Each month, a deserving teacher from a Southwest Orlando 

school will be recognized for his or her hard work 

and dedication to students. 

To submit a nomination, 

send the teacher's name, 

school and why they deserve to be 

Teacher of the Month to 

lauren@kearneypublishing.com. 

May 6, 2021 

Volume XXXV, No. 13 

P.O. Box 851 

Windermere, FL 34786 

407-351-1573 

www.southwestorlandobulletin.com 

The Southwest Orlando Bulletin is published semimonthly by 

Cornerstone Publishing & Multi-Media LLC. No material may be reproduced 

without written permission. Subscriptions are available in the U.S. and Puerto 

Rico for $25.56 per year and in Canada for $31.80 per year. For foreign 

surface mailing, add $20 per year. 

Neither the publishers nor the advertisers are responsible or liable for 

typographical errors, misinformation, misprints, etc., unintentionally contained 

herein. All letters received become the property of Cornerstone Publishing & 

Multi-Media LLC and may be reproduced and edited without consent. 

©2021/Cornerstone Publishing & Multi-Media LLC 

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER 

Rick V. Martin 

VICE PRESIDENT 

Yvette Martin 

MANAGING EDITOR 

Lisa Sagers 

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT 

Lauren Salinero 

CIRCULATION 

Robert Barlow 

MARKETING CONSULTANTS 

Madeline DeVito 

407-351-1573, option 1 

mdevito@kearneypublishing.com 

Michelle Oakes 

321-277-3467 

michelle 

@cornerstonepublishinggroup.com

www.SouthwestOrlandoBulletin.com x May 6 — 19, 2021 x 5 

Summer Kids 

C a lendar 

31 

With summer just around the corner, kids and parents are looking forward 

to getting out of the house. If you’re seeking kid-friendly activities 

to keep your children entertained, active and out of trouble, then look 

no further. Southwest Orlando Bulletin’s annual Summer Kids Calendars 

provide great ideas to get you started! 

AnnVarkeyRealtor@gmail.com 

7232 Sand Lake Rd #103 Orlando Fl 32819 

Thank Youto all 

my friends and neighbors for voting me 

a Best of Southwest Realtor for the 7th year in a row! 

Orlando Ballet School offers a summer program for dancers 3-12. 

DANCE CAMP with Orlando Ballet School, orlandoballet.org, at Harriett’s 

Orlando Ballet Centre, 600 N. Lake Formosa Drive, Orlando, is designed to provide 

OBS’s younger students, ages 3-12, with continued intense ballet training, as 

well as expose them to other forms of dance such as jazz, character and musical 

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 

theater. Following the end of the second week, students present a showcase 

performance for family and friends to attend. The camp runs June 7-18, and both 

half-day and full-day options are available. The cost is $185-$550. 

Footworks Dance 

Studio offers summer 

programs for all ages. 

Creative Movement,” “Shining Star Combo Class,” “Wee Hop,” hip-hop, jazz, 

musical theater, stretch/leaps/turns, strength/conditioning, rotations/improvisation, 

aerial skills and acro. 

DANCE AND PERFORMING 

ARTS CAMPS at Centre for Dance 

& the Performing Arts, now in its 

31st year under the direction of Kathryn 

White Austin, Ph.D., are committed to 

the education of the whole child using 

dance as the primary medium to teach 

life skills through the arts, specifically 

dance, in support of 21st century skills, 

social-emotional learning and healthy 

living. The studio is located at 301 S. 

Tubb St., Suite C, in Oakland. For more 

information, visit www.dancecdpa.com. 

DANCE CAMPS at Footworks Dance Studio, 1201 Winter Garden 

Vineland Road, Winter Garden, 407-877-2260, www.footworksdancestudio. 

com, offer summer programs for all ages. Camps begin June 14, and the fiveweek 

summer class program is June 19-July 29. Classes include “Twinkle Star 

Centre for Dance & the Performing 

Arts summer day camps are themed, 

integrated-arts camps with a focus on dance 

skills, age-appropriate content and creative 

collaboration. 

Now Open 

12500 Overstreet Rd. 

Windermere, FL 34786 

Oversteet Rd. is 1/4 mile south of the intersection 

of Chase Rd. and Hwy 535 in Windermere. 

Open 

On Mother's 

Day 

Open 7 days a week 

from 9-5 

beckblueberries11@gmail.com 

WE NOW HAVE 2 LARGE 

HAND WASHING STATIONS. 

EQUIPMENT IS SANITIZED BETWEEN USES. 

PLENTY OF ROOM 

FOR SOCIAL DISTANCING.


Weekly Sessions from 

June 7 to August 6, 2021 

Lake Cypress Summer Camp attendees have a multitude of activities to keep them 

engaged. 

LAKE CYPRESS SUMMER CAMP at Windermere Preparatory 

School; 6189 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Windermere; 407-905-7737, 

opt. 8; camp.windermereprep.com; offers a camp for children ages 5-14 that 

includes on-campus field trips and lots of specialty camp rooms. Attendees 

can participate in swimming, crafts, sports, dance, martial arts, inflatables, 

box forts, an arcade, gaga, laser tag and more! Camp sessions take place 

June 7-July 30 (choose any weeks). The cost is $285 per week from 9 a.m.-3 

p.m. or $350 per week from 7:45 a.m.-5:45 p.m. Register today! 


www.mgtennis.com



June 19th -July 29th 2021 

Classes Offered: 

 

 

 

 

 

Summer Camps: 

1. 

 

 

2. 

 

3. 

 

4. 

 

5. 

 

6. 

 

7. 

 

 

8. 

 

9. 

 

10. 

 

Orlando Repertory Theatre camps foster self-confidence, friendship, creativity, 

self-expression and more. 

PERFORMING ARTS CAMPS are offered by Orlando Repertory 

Theatre, 1001 E. Princeton St., Orlando. Orlando REP offers the most dynamic 

camps in Central Florida, with offerings for students in pre-K through 

high school: building confidence, creating joy and exploring personal artistry 

through theater. Campers can focus on acting, dance, improv, film, costuming 

or scenic design. Summer at Orlando REP is awesome! For more information, 

visit www.orlandorep.com. 

Children’s Lighthouse’s summer camps put the fun in summer! 

SUMMER CAMPS at Children’s Lighthouse, 220 Windermere Road, 

Winter Garden, 407-395-0077, www.childrenslighthouse.com/wintergarden. 

This school-age summer camp program cares for youngsters in kindergarten 

through fifth grade. Hours of operation are 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Kids enjoy 

themed activities and safe, in-house field trips. The cost is $160 per week plus 

a one-time summer activity fee of $150.


Cranium Academy’s summer camps offer a perfect combination of learning and fun. 

SUMMER CAMPS at Cranium Academy, 407-431-0085, 407-391- 

3780, camps.endeavorschools.com. Cranium Academy’s 11-week summer 

camp program is an active, fun experience for children ages 2-10. Its main 

camp offers weeklong themes that combine science, art, music, sports and 

more for a wide range of fascinating and educational experiences. One 

week, a child can be an astronaut exploring planets. The next week, he or 

she can be a soccer player learning the physics of the perfect kick. Cranium 

also offers STEM camps for children ages 4-10. With an exciting curriculum 

and state-of-the-art learning technology, Cranium Academy is the ultimate 

summer camp destination. 


SWIM LESSONS 

REDUCE RISK OF 

DROWNING BY 88%* 

DROWNING IS THE 

LEADING CAUSE OF 

ACCIDENTAL DEATH 

IN CHILDREN 1-4 

YEARS OLD.** 

*National Institutes of Health **U.S. 

Centers for Disease Control 

Safety First Swim School 

teaches children as young as 

six months old how to roll on 

their back and float in case they 

accidentally fall into water. 

call 321-236-0240 ext. 5 

visit www.safetyfirstswim.com 

268293



Campers enjoy a variety of outdoor activities at Gan Israel Day Camp. 

Camp Roar at The First Academy offers engaging activities for all attendees. 

SUMMER CAMPS at The First Academy, 2667 Bruton Blvd., Orlando, 

www.thefirstacademy.org/academics/camp-roar. Camp Roar at TFA is 

geared toward students entering transitional kindergarten through fifth grade 

and features all-day and part-time camp opportunities from June 7-July 30. 

Engaging offerings include academics, sports, the arts and more. There is also 

a summer camp for TFA’s littlest Royals — Camp Roar Preschool. Camp Roar 

is open to current TFA and non-TFA students. Camp costs vary. 

SUMMER CAMPS at Gan Israel Day Camp, 407-354-3660, www. 

ilovegi.com, are camps on 27 beautiful acres that are dedicated to enriching 

the lives of children from diverse Jewish backgrounds and affiliations through 

stimulating camp experiences. Activities include sports, swimming, archery, a 

ropes course, watersports, art and specialty fun shops. Camp Gan Israel is 

part of the largest, fastest-growing network of day camps, enjoying a reputation 

as a trendsetter in Jewish camping, with innovative ideas and creative 

programs. CGI is accredited by the American Camp Association. Camp sessions 

are June 28-July 23 from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Extended care is available. 

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

For All Your Camp and 

Summer Tennis Requirements 

AT WINDERMERE PREP 

SCHOOL AND WEST 

ORANGE COUNTRY CLUB 

Phone: 407-928-6666 

www.orlandotennisacademy.com 

info@orlandotennisacademy.com 


ATJCC 

Rosen 

FULL 

Day Camp 

M-F 

9 am - 4 pm 

Grades 

K - 8th 

Each week 

has different 

projects! 

Registration 

Now Open!!! 

Extended Day available 

for an additional fee 

9 weekly sessions 

6/7 - 6/11 thru 8/2 - 8/6 

Early Care: 7-9am 

Late Care: 4-6:30pm 

Clay, Canvas 

Painting & 

Potter’s Wheel 

$329 

JCC members $299.00 

superawesomecool.com/ 

camps 

2021 SUMMER 

DANCE CAMP 

June 7-18, 2021 

Ages 3-12 

Harriett’s Orlando Ballet Centre 

OrlandoBallet.org



SUMMER CAMPS by Super Awesome Cool Pottery, superawesomecool. 

com/camp, held at various locations throughout the area, encourage children 

in grades first through eighth to think creatively while having fun exploring 

themes. Each clay and painting project is designed to be an opportunity 

for self-expression as new 

skills are taught. Awesome 

artistic experiences create 

a new sense of selfconfidence. 

The staff looks 

forward to helping your 

child experience the thrill 

of building with clay, painting 

and creating bowls on 

the potter’s wheel! Camps 

are offered in nine weekly 

sessions from June 7-11 

through Aug. 2-6. Extended 

Day is available for an 

additional fee. SWIM LESSONS through Safety First Swim School, 321-418-6532, 

safetyfirstswim.com. Safety First Swim School offers survival swim lessons 

at West Orange Country Club, 3300 West Orange Country Club Drive, 

Super Awesome Cool 

Pottery summer camps boast 

weekly themes. 

The staff at Safety First Swim School makes students their first priority. 

Winter Garden. Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death in children 

ages 1-4 (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). The truth 

is that although drowning is the No. 1 cause of accidental death in young 

children, it is also true that this unfortunate statistic is 100% preventable. 

According to the National Institute of Health, swim lessons reduce the risk 

of drowning by 88%. 

Centre for Dance & the Performing Arts 

CDPA Summer Fun 2021 

Now Accepting Registrations! 

CDPA offers an integrated approach to 

whole-child development through the art of 

dance. Enjoy a collaborative learning 

environment in our themed summer day 

camps, evening classes and dance intensives. 

Looking for something unique? Try traditional 

Scottish Highland Dance this summer! Visit our 

website at www.dancecdpa.com for more 

information and registration options. 

SUMMER 2021 

June 28th – July 23rd 

SUMMER DAY CAMPS - JUNE 14 - JULY 23 

SUMMER NIGHT SESSIONS - JULY 6 - JULY 30 

Sign up today! Contact us at dancecdpa@gmail.com 

Camp Gan Israel is a summer camp dedicated to enriching the lives of 

children from diverse Jewish backgrounds and affiliations, through a 

stimulating camping experience. Campers are infused with a deep sense 

of pride in their Jewish heritage, and love for the land of Israel. We put 

great focus on child safety and program quality. We offer a variety of 

“Funshops” to suit each camper’s interest and talent.


Lake Cane Tennis Center Fun and Sun Tennis Summer Camp boasts a fun and 

outgoing environment. 

TENNIS CAMPS at Lake Cane Tennis Center Fun and Sun Tennis 

Summer Camp, 407-254-9170, www.mgtennis.com, make tennis — the 

sport of a lifetime — easier and more fun than ever to learn and improve 

on for kids of all ages and abilities. The passionate coaches make each 

camper’s experience fun and positive while instructing children in fundamental 

tennis skills that ensure a connection and love of the sport for years 

to come. The outgoing, fun environment of the camp is conducive and safe 

for children to learn the sport while having an opportunity to make new 

friends and participate in tennis skills and games. Weekly sessions are 

June 7-Aug. 6 from 9-11:30 a.m. 

The Tennis Academy at Windermere Preparatory School gives its campers 

hands-on tennis experience. 

TENNIS CAMPS at The Tennis Academy at Windermere 

Preparatory School, 6189 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Windermere, 

and its tri-sport tennis/golf/swim at West Orange Country Club 3300 W. 

Orange County Club Drive, Winter Garden, begin May 31. The program 

includes fun, games and activities while keeping cool, as well as a lifeguard-supervised 

swimming pool option! The cost is $325 per person for 

five days or $195 per person for three days (only Windermere) from 9 a.m.- 

2 p.m. Lessons/junior programs continue throughout the summer as well as 

Elite Training Camps. For more information or electronic registration, visit 

www.orlandotennisacademy.com or email info@orlandotennisacademy.com. 


EDUCATIONAL CHILD 

CARE WITH A PURPOSE! 

• State-of-the-art security system with 

cameras in every classroom 

• Internet link between child’s room & 

your PC 

• 6 weeks to VPK, plus before & afterschool 

care for elementary-school ages 

• Oversized outdoor, сovered playground 

structures with Sofplay and a 

Splash Pad 

• Faith-based learning center Free Registration 

Up to $75 Value 

Hours of Operation: 

6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. 

Monday thru Friday 

(407) 395-0077 

220 Windermere Road, Winter Garden, FL 34787 

www.ChildrensLighthousePOF.com 

Email: admin@childrenslighthouse.com 

GIVE US A CALL TODAY 

TO SCHEDULE A VIRTUAL TOUR!



Each month, Chick-fil-A of Sand Lake Road and the Southwest Orlando Bulletin 

honor one Southwest resident who has been spotted giving back to the 

community. Winners receive a FREE Chick-fil-A catered celebration, delivered to 

the winner safely, following Covid guidelines! Send nominations for the You’ve 

Been Spotted Award to Lauren Salinero at lauren@kearneypublishing.com or call 

407-351-1573, ext. 4. 

Orange County Library System offers virtual library camps and classes filled with 

activities for all ages. 

VIRTUAL LIBRARY CAMPS AND CLASSES through the Orange 

County Library System, 407-835-7323, ocls.info. This year’s Summer 

Reading Program takes place May 30-Aug. 1. Get ready to go wild with 

Tales & Tails — an exploration of amazing Florida wildlife and fantastical 

folktales. Fun and educational virtual events and activities are available for all 

ages. The website is live, so you can view upcoming events and pre-register 

for the 600-Minute Reading Challenge. ª



Getting Students Back on Track for Success 

Many students struggle with their 

schoolwork under normal circumstances. 

When parents factor in the upheaval 

of schools closing early or transitioning 

to virtual learning at the end of last 

school year and the continued inconsistency 

this year, it is no surprise that more 

and more students are falling behind. 

For parents in the Dr. Phillips and 

Windermere areas, Huntington 

Learning Center can help. 

Executive Director Aziz Kabani 

explained the problem facing students 

today is they have been trying to play 

catch up while already at a disadvantage. 

There is a known learning regression 

that happens every summer. 

When parents take into consideration 

that last summer was even longer due 

to COVID-19 and the challenges that 

schools have faced this year, children 

aren't retaining the information they're 

learning as well and are struggling as 

a result. 

“What’s happening is there’s no continuity 

with the learning environment right 

now,” Kabani said. “It’s hard to be able 

to learn the same amount of skill when 

half the class is online, the other half is 

in person. The goal for us is to be able 

to give them those specific skills that 

they’re missing.” 

Staying One Step Ahead 

Huntington Learning Center is committed 

to helping students, not just get 

back on track, but continue to progress. 

“Our goal is to always have students 

working one grade level ahead,” 

Kabani said. “We identify where their 

skill level is and build all the way up.” 

Huntington Learning Center does this 

through thorough evaluation of what 

each student needs and one-on-one 

instruction customized to each child. 

It also offers a virtual option for those 

who aren’t comfortable coming to the 

center in person. Virtual students get the 

exact same learning experience online, 

as well as access to the same 3,000 

pieces of curriculum that is available in 

the center. Whether it’s reading, writing 

or math, the teachers are able to continue 

one-on-one instruction online at no 

extra charge. 

“The first thing we do is give the 

student an assessment to see exactly 

where they fall with their skill level,” 

Kabani said. “Our goal is to be able 

to identify any setback or any gaps in 

their foundational skills. From there, we 

develop a program for each individual 

child. There are no two students in our 

program that are working on the same 

curriculum. It’s all based on specific 

needs.” 

The dedication to each child’s success 

and willingness to go above and beyond 

is what truly sets Huntington Learning 

Center apart. The teachers work in partnership 

with parents and schools. They 

have progress meetings with the child’s 

parents every few weeks, so they are informed 

of what skills their child is working 

on and how he or she is progressing. 

They may reach out to the student’s 

teachers at school to collaborate on the 

best way to help the student progress, 

and they are happy to attend IEP or 504 

meetings to advocate for the student. 

All teachers at Huntington Learning 

Center are required to hold a minimum 

four-year degree and must be 

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE 

trained specifically in the subject matter 

they are teaching. The center has 

been helping students for more than 20 

years and is accredited by the Middle 

States Association. It is also accredited 

as a private school by the Florida 

Department of Education. 

With the largest SAT program in the 

state, their average test score increases 

are impressive. A Huntington student’s 

SAT test score will on average increase 

by 250 points or more, and their ACT 

test score will on average increase by 

6 points. 

“For some people, it’s the difference 

between even going to college and not 

going to college,” Kabani said. 

Building 

Confidence in Academics 

Confidence-building is a key element 

in helping students excel. All the teachers 

at Huntington Learning Center aim 

to encourage the students and boost 

their confidence. Parents who come to 

Huntington Learning Center are often 

in a contentious relationship with their 

kids. They feel frustrated and discouraged 

at having to fight over homework 

every night and not being able to help. 

And, the kids are doing what Kabani 

calls delayed avoidance. They want to 

do everything else except their homework, 

because it’s hard. They want to 

save the hardest thing for last, and then 

it doesn’t get done. 

“We want to let students know that 

they can do the work,” Kabani said. 

“The biggest complaint we get from 

the parents is, ‘I cannot sit with my 

child and do homework. My daughter 

and I get into a fight every single night 

about doing this, because it’s too hard 

for her and she doesn’t want to listen 

to me.’ When we’re able to build these 

skills, the student is able to work independently, 

and it changes the whole 

relationship between the parent and 

the child, because they’re able to get 

back to being Mom and Dad and the 

child instead of the teacher and the 

student.” 

After studying at Huntington Learning 

Center, the same children who struggled 

to read when they started at the center 

are now reading two or three grade 

levels ahead. And, they like it, because 

they’ve become good at it. Huntington 

Learning Center builds those skills and 

the confidence to tackle learning challenges 

and excel at them. 

For more information, call 407-290-1111 or visit 

huntingtonhelps.com/center/dr-phillips. ª


Southwest 

SEEN 

Several members of the Rotary Club of Dr. Phillips were 

recently presented with Paul Harris Fellow awards. The 

awards acknowledge those who contribute, or have 

contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary 

Foundation. Those who earned this recognition were Lori 

McCord; Robin, Reese and Regan O'Donnell; Ken 

Peach; Judge Patricia Strawbridge; Pam Thomas; 

Alma van Der Velde and Dan Walters.

Living Well 

Southwest OrlanDo 

Volume 2, Issue 2 — May 2021 

The ImporTance of menTal 

healTh awareness 

managIng recovery from 

“long covID” 

A Product of the 

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The Basics of Medicare 

by Christine Ross 

flhealthcaresolutions@gmail.com 

www.myuhcagent.com/christine.ross 

Medicare is federal health insurance 

for people who are generally 

older than age 65. Certain disabilities 

may qualify for eligibility at an 

earlier age. 

Signing up for Medicare is completed 

during specific enrollment 

periods. The initial enrollment period 

is a seven-month period surrounding 

an individual’s 65th birthday. If 

working past 65, a special enrollment 

period will be activated when 

leaving a qualified employer group 

health plan. 

Medicare consists of three parts: 

• Part A (hospital insurance) 

• Part B (medical insurance) 

• Part D (prescription drug coverage) 

Medicare A is premium-free if 

40 quarters were paid into Social 

Security. Medicare Part B involves 

a standard monthly premium of 

$148.50 in 2021. “Extra help” 

is available for those in need 

of financial assistance with this 

premium. 

Watch for monthly features on 

Medicare-related topics. Medicare 

can be confusing, but it doesn’t have 

to be. ª

Living Well | May 2021 | 5 

The Importance 

of Mental Health Awareness 

Mental illnesses affect 19% of the 

adult population, 46% of teenagers 

and 13% of children each year. 

People struggling with their mental 

health may be in your family, live 

next door, teach your children, work 

in the next cubicle, or sit in the same 

church pew. 

disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive 

disorder (OCD), panic disorder 

(panic attacks), generalized anxiety 

disorder and specific phobias. 

• Mood disorders. Mood disorders 

such as depression and bipolar 

depression affect nearly 10% of 

adults each year and are characterized 

by difficulties in regulating 

one’s mood. 

What You 

Can Do to Help 

However, only half of those affected 

receive treatment, often because 

of the stigma attached to mental 

health issues. Untreated, mental illness 

can contribute to higher medical 

expenses, poorer performance 

at school and work, fewer employment 

opportunities and increased 

risk of suicide. 

What Exactly Is 

a Mental Illness? 

A mental illness is a physical illness 

of the brain that causes disturbances 

in thinking, behavior, energy 

or emotion that make it difficult to 

cope with the ordinary demands of 

life. Research is starting to uncover 

the complicated causes of these 

diseases, which can include genetics, 

brain chemistry, brain structure, 

experiencing trauma and/or having 

another medical condition like heart 

disease. 

The two most common mental 

health conditions are: 

• Anxiety disorders. More than 

18% of adults each year struggle 

with some type of anxiety disorder, 

including post-traumatic stress 

Although the general perception 

of mental illness has improved over 

the past few decades, studies show 

that stigma against mental illness is 

still powerful, largely due to media 

stereotypes and lack of education, 

and that people tend to attach negative 

stigmas to mental health conditions 

at a far higher rate than to 

other diseases and disabilities such 

as cancer, diabetes or heart disease. 

Stigma affects not only the number 

seeking treatment but also the 

number of resources available for 

proper treatment. Stigmas and misinformation 

can feel like overwhelming 

obstacles for someone who is struggling 

with a mental health condition. 

Here are a few powerful things you 

can do to help: 

• Showing individuals respect 

and acceptance removes a significant 

barrier to successfully coping 

with their illness. Having people see 

you as an individual and not as your 

illness can make the biggest difference 

for someone who is struggling 

with his or her mental health. 

• Advocating within your circles 

of influence helps ensure these individuals 

have the same rights and opportunities 

as other members of your 

church, school and community. 

• Learning more about mental 

health allows us to provide helpful 

support to those affected in our families 

and communities. 

Source: Christian Mental Health Services ª

6 | May 2021 | Living Well 

Hope and Healing for the Heart 

by Julie Wolf, MA, LMHC, Owner 

Hope Counseling Clinic • 410 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden 

407-654-5700 • hopecounsel.com 

Julie Wolf, MA, LMHC, 

owner of Hope Counseling 

Clinic, is committed to 

helping families and 

individuals find healing. 

The ability to form and maintain 

healthy relationships with those you 

love and who love you is one of the 

greatest contributors to your mental 

health. Hope Counseling Clinic, 

located in downtown Winter 

Garden, is committed to helping 

both families and individuals achieve 

just that. Having strong, supportive 

relationships is like having a healthy 

immune system when it comes to 

dealing with the challenges of daily 

life. So much of this past year has 

caused people to feel separated, 

disconnected and even divided from 

one another. At Hope Counseling 

Clinic, all of the counselors are professionally 

trained to help their clients 

find healing in their relationships 

with others and within themselves. 

They work with individuals, couples, 

families, teens and children. Some of 

the issues the counselors most often 

treat are depression, anxiety/panic, 

relationship issues, divorce/blended 

family issues, self-harm, suicidal ideation, 

trauma, abuse, addiction and 

eating disorders. With their clients’ 

health and safety being of utmost 

concern, the staff offers both in-office 

sessions and appointments via 

telehealth. 

Facing life’s most difficult challenges 

can seem daunting at best 

and utterly hopeless at worst. Hope 

Counseling Clinic’s counselors are 

committed to the belief that hope 

is an essential ingredient that helps 

to keep people moving forward at 

times when they feel like quitting. 

It may be a marriage, child, job or 

even yourself that feels too far gone. 

Hope’s staff encourages you to seek 

help now. They consider it an honor 

and privilege to walk with clients 

during this most challenging season 

as they find their hope restored and 

seek healing for their hearts. ª

More than a year into the 

COVID-19 pandemic, it’s becoming 

clear that some patients who recover 

may take longer to feel like themselves 

than others. 

A new analysis by Cigna claims 

data estimates that about 7% to 10% 

of its commercial customers diagnosed 

with COVID-19 could be considered 

“long-haulers,” or patients experiencing 

symptoms for longer than 12 

weeks after initially getting sick. 

“Much remains to be learned 

about the potential long-lasting effects 

of COVID-19, but the good 

news is that the health care community 

is working to support people in 

their recovery long after they leave 

the hospital,” said Steve Miller, 

M.D., Cigna’s executive vice president 

and chief clinical officer. 

Dr. Miller, a nationally recognized 

advocate for greater access, affordability 

and excellence in health care, 

offers the following tips for those 

grappling with “long COVID.” 

• Take care of your mental health. 

It’s no secret that we’re facing a mental 

health crisis in America that will 

remain long after COVID-19 restrictions 

are eased. Last year alone, 

Cigna’s pharmacy benefit manager 

saw a nearly 8% increase in people 

using antidepressants. Recovery 

from COVID-19 can be physically 

and mentally draining, especially 

for people whose symptoms persist 

for many weeks or months. Cigna 

research shows at least 5% of its patients 

who recovered from COVID-19 

developed a mental health disorder 

in the following months. The good 

news is that the pandemic has rapidly 

accelerated the availability and 

Managing 

Recovery From “Long COVID” 

adoption of a range of behavioral 

health options, making it easier to 

find a mental health counselor who 

can help. In fact, 60% of Cigna behavioral 

health customers are now 

using virtual services — 97% of 

whom had previously never had a 

virtual visit before the pandemic. 

• Take advantage of care managers. 

Many health plans have 

expanded access to virtual and telehealth 

services that can help you 

avoid additional trips to the clinic or 

emergency room. Equally important, 

some health plans offer individualized 

support in your recovery from 

a care manager. Think of them as 

a personal health advocate. They 

will check in to see how you’re feeling, 

help connect you with needed 

specialists and follow-up treatments, 

and will even check in on your family. 

Hospitalized Cigna customers 

who had a post-discharge visit with 

©Drazen Zigic/iStock via Getty Images Plus 

Some people 

who have COVID-19 

experience symptoms 

beyond 12 weeks. 

a provider, either in-person or virtually, 

and engaged with a Cigna 

care manager saw savings of almost 

$2,000 in 60-day post-COVID 

costs. Care managers also helped 

people recover and return to work a 

full week sooner than average. 

• Get vaccinated when you can. 

Some preliminary reports show 

Living Well | May 2021 | 7 

that getting the COVID-19 vaccine 

has helped improve symptoms for 

long-haulers. 

• Find a long-hauler clinic. 

Researchers are still learning about 

COVID-19’s long-term impacts, and 

there are a number of clinics opening 

across the country focused solely 

on treating COVID long-haulers. 

The National Institutes of Health has 

also dedicated $1.1 billion to the 

study of long COVID, and Cigna is 

coordinating closely with them and 

these clinics to support its customers. 

Connection is crucial, so also consider 

seeking out an online long-hauler 

support network like Survivor Corps. 

• Keep practicing COVID-19 precautions. 

Everyone is ready to get 

back to doing the things they love, 

but none of us are safe until all of 

us are safe. America is in a race to 

reach herd immunity before more 

contagious variants gain momentum. 

Continue wearing masks, washing 

your hands and practicing social distancing, 

and encourage family members 

and friends to do the same. 

(StatePoint) ª 

Get Social With Us! 

www.southwestorlandobulletin.com


30th Annual 

Best 

Mom 

in Southwest 

In 1992, the Southwest Orlando Bulletin — 

then just a little more than 6 years old — 

introduced what has become a Southwest 

Orlando institution — the annual Best Mom 

in Southwest contest. Now in its 30th year, 

the contest is a way for residents to express 

to their moms how important they truly are. 

It seems that mothers are perpetually 

protecting their children from the ills of the 

world, tirelessly cooking and cleaning, and 

preparing their children for adult life, all 

while managing to somehow be the kindest 

and gentlest women, despite occasionally 

having to dole out discipline. 

Congratulations to this year’s winners: Julia 

Barry, overall winner; Miguel Rojas, 

12-and-older winner; Nevaya Rivera, 

10-11 winner; and Emma Arreguin, 

9-younger winner; and all of our honorable 

mentions. They join a long list of past 

participants who believe that their mothers 

are truly the best. 

Overall 

Winner 

Julia Barry of Windermere Downs, 

overall winner, is pictured 

with best mom Sarah Barry.


OVERALL WINNER 

Julia Barry, 10 

Windermere Downs 

Best Mom: Sarah Barry 

The way my mom loves me makes me feel 

like the luckiest girl in the world! She shows 

this in many ways, and it makes me think of 

the word “light.” We wake up early, and she 

and I talk on the back porch, watching the 

sunrise. This makes me feel warm and safe, 

and the day seems to open up for us. She is 

always excited to help me, sometimes reminding 

me of a jolt of lightning when I need it. 

She does so much more for me than she 

thinks. She asks me to try my best and to 

always look on the bright side. This reminds 

me of a lighthouse because she guides me 

through life. My mom teaches me about different 

cultures and backgrounds. She is not 

afraid to try unfamiliar things and is one of 

the most creative people around. 

She knows what needs to be done and 

when. My mom makes me better than I was 

before by encouraging me and not resting if 

something is unfair. She fights for justice. My 

grandmother told me the story of when my 

mom was in kindergarten and an older bully 

was hurting someone. My mom ran up and 

stopped the bullying, even though she was 

only 5 years old. I can picture her as a little 

kid, standing up for the rights of others. Lots 

of kids have loving moms, but what I think 

makes my mom different is that she is my 

angel, and she illuminates my world. 

12-AND-OLDER WINNER 

Miguel Rojas, 13 

John’s Landing 

Best Mom: Diana Rojas 

Before I was born into this world, my 

mother had already given me the best gift 

by coming to the United States of America 

to give me a better life than in Colombia. 

Not only has my mother given me the best 

by coming to this country, but she also 

cooks healthy food, takes me to all of my 

football practices and games, supports my 

Catholic education, and works from home 

to spend more time with my sister and me. 

My mother is not just my mother, she is my 

guide in life, who has taught me right from 

wrong and to be disciplined. The person 

Miguel Rojas of John’s Landing, 

winner in the 12-and-older age group, is 

pictured with best mom Diana Rojas. 

who is responsible for the person I am today 

is my mother. 

Throughout my life, my mother has 

pushed me to do better, especially in school 

and football. By encouraging me, my mom 

has taught me that nothing is impossible if I 

give it my all. My mother’s boundless love 

for my sister and me is unexplainable, so 

together we can say that we are blessed 

with the mother that God has given to us. To 

my mother, I would like to say thank you for 

being the best mom in the world, for making 

so many sacrifices for me, for making me 

who I am today, and for teaching me the 

most important thing about love — that actions 

of love are worth a million times more 

than saying, "I love you." 

10-11 WINNER 

Nevaya Rivera, 10 

Ocoee 

Best Mom: Juanita Morales 

My mom is the best because she is the 

one and only mother I have. She is not just 

my mother, she is my best friend. Her name 

is Juanita Morales, but she goes by 

Nikki. My mother was a teen mom. She 

had my older sister at 17 years old and me 

at 20 years old. My mother is a very independent 

and strong woman. She sacrificed 

everything to make our lives better. 

Five years ago, we were living in the 

Bronx, New York, in three different shelters 

and two different schools. My mom wanted 

a better life for us, so she decided to move 




Nevaya Rivera of Ocoee, winner in 

the 10-11 age group, is pictured with best 

mom Juanita Morales. 

to Florida and rebuild. It didn’t work out as 

planned because my parents split up. My 

dad went back to New York City, and my 

mom decided to stay in Florida with me and 

my sister. It was a struggle, but we made it. 

Five years later, my mom put a roof over 

our heads, food on the table, and clothes 

on our backs. My mom is very special to 

me. I look up to her every day. I love her 

very much, even though we bump heads 

here and there. I wouldn’t trade my mom for 

anything in the world. She is my mother, my 

father and my best friend. She is the one 

who told me this quote, “Remember to never 

give up on your dreams, always keep reaching 

for the stars, and dream big.” 

9-AND-YOUNGER WINNER 

Emma Arreguin, 8 

Winter Garden 

Best Mom: Esther Carbaludo Lopez 

My mom is the best mom in the world 

because she keeps me safe no matter what 

happens. When I am sick, she stops doing 

anything she is doing to attend to me. She 

lets my brother and I go to the park with our 

friends to have fun. 

My mom cares about me and loves me. 

She helps me with my homework and is 

there for me. My first time in school, I remember 

I was really scared and started crying. 

She was sad, too, to let me go. She stayed 

in the parking lot the whole day because 

she wanted to be close in case I needed her. 

When I had to move from California to 

Florida, I didn’t want to leave my friends 

Emma Arreguin of Winter Garden, 

winner in the 9-and-younger age group, is 

pictured with best mom Esther Carbaludo 

Lopez. 

behind. My mom told me that I would be 

able to swim in pools. Once, I hit my head 

on the pool. I was really scared, and she 

was there to comfort me. She was there for 

me when they inserted and removed the 

staples from my head. 

On my FSA, I was really nervous. She 

put a lovely note in my lunch bag saying 

that she would love me no matter what. She 

is there for me in my scariest and happiest 

times. I admire her because she helps 

people and cares for my brother and me. 

My Mom is resilient and crafty, and means 

the world to me. 

HONORABLE MENTIONS 

My mami is the best for many reasons. 

Every night when I go to sleep, she tucks 

me in bed. If I wake up scared, she has 

hugs and kisses for me to make all the bad 

things go away. No matter when I get up, 

she makes sure I have breakfast and takes 

care of my food and clothes. She takes me 

to school and karate. She never forgets to 

pick me up from school, and she always has 

the right gear for my activities. She helps me 

with my schoolwork and plays the games I 

like, even if they are not her favorites. She 

builds Legos with me when they are hard to 

put together. 

When we had home schooling, she made 

me a desk and is my favorite teacher ever. 

We did projects and colored together. She 

taught me the letters of the alphabet and 

all my numbers. I love to eat the food she 

makes, but her homemade pasta is the 

best. She makes sure I am happy and never

forgets to cuddle, even if she is busy. My 

mami is the most beautiful person in the 

whole world, and I would not trade her for 

anything, even for a red Power Ranger. 

I love you, Mami. 

Valentino D’Angelo, 5 

Sand Lake Sound 

Mothers all over the world are great 

moms, but only one mom in the world can 

be the best. That mom is my mother, Tanya 

Thurston. 

My mother is caring and kind, but most 

importantly, she loves me. She loves my fun 

and funny personality. She laughs at my 

jokes. I love being silly with my mom. She 

also loves me for my kind heart. She loves 

how I share with my sister. She always says, 

“Sharing is caring.” 

She motivates me to do my best. 

Whenever I have something difficult in class, 

my mom tells me to do my best no matter 

what. She also motivates me when I play the 

violin. Whenever I have a difficult song I try 

to play, she tells me to keep trying, no matter 

how many times I mess up. She encourages 

me to keep trying even when I feel like 

giving up. 

My mother loves me and motivates me, no 

matter what. To all the moms out there in the 

world: You are great, but my mom is the best 

mom in the entire world. 

Lily Thurston, 11 

Saddlebrooke 

My mother, the one who knows every part 

of me; the one who perceives all my feelings, 

even if I deny them; the one who knows 

what’s best for me, even if I don’t believe it. 

She is my forever best companion and will 

never lose the position of best friend. 

Even though I am no longer a helpless 

child, I feel the same care and affection in 

all the words spoken and in all the gestures 

shared. I will be forever grateful for all the 

sleepless nights, the patience with all my 

frustrations, and the affection donated to 

alleviate my pains. 

She is the light of my life, my example, the 

best grandmother I could ever want for my 

children. In the most difficult moments, she 

was there to offer her hand and make sure 

I had everything I needed. I do not have 

words to thank her for all that she taught 

me and for all the time she supported me 

unconditionally. 


I hope I can still give her lots of kisses 

and lots of hugs. I’m sure no one has more 

reasons to love my mother than I do. May all 

the effort and commitment invested in me be 

duly compensated, preferably with a future 

full of happiness with her. No matter how 

much time passes and seasons move, I will 

love her forever. 

Raissa Franca, 14 

Winter Garden 

My mom is the best! She gives us love. 

When we fight, we cry. When we get hurt, 

her medicine is love. She came to the USA 

with my dad (both are from Guatemala) 

to provide us with a better life and made 

a lot of sacrifices in order to do that. She 

comes from a family of 10 kids, so that has 

been the hardest for her, since she is the 

only one living here. She always shows us 

the great love that she has for her family. 

It’s her greatest gift, she says. She teaches 

us to love each other no matter what. She 

teaches us by example to care for others 

with the small things: when we are going 

for a walk, she always says, "Hi," to others 

and asks them how they’ve been. When 

a friend is in trouble, she reaches out and 

offers to cook for them or goes to visit them. 

She cooks everything she gives us with 

love, even though she is not the best cook. 

She is always happy, with a big smile, and 

when we do something we are not supposed 

to, she shows us the right way. Most 

importantly, she teaches us about our faith 

and shows us how to practice it, knowing 

that there is a great God that is always with 

us and wants us to do good on earth, so we 

can enjoy time with Him forever in heaven. 

Thank you, Mom, for being the most fun, 

amazing, kind, smart and beautiful mom 

out there. 

Sara Galindo, 5 

Waterside 

My mom is a rainbow. Red for the unconditional 

love you have for me, Liah (sister) 

and Dad. Orange for the way you erupt 

with kindness, like the way a volcano erupts 

with lava. Yellow for the way your bright, 

blond hair shines just like the sun. Green for 

all of the money that I’d never trade for you. 

Blue for how rare of a mom you are, just like 

the rare sapphire gemstone. Purple for how 


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sweet you are, just like a big, sweet grape. 

Brown for how your coffee-colored eyes 

awaken me and give energy to my days. 

The only difference between you and the 

rainbow is that the rainbow only appears 

sometimes, and you are in my life every day. 

Happy Mother’s Day. I love you, Mom! 

Noah Bittencourt Hibner, 9 

Woodlands Village 

My mom, Mellissa Gacek, is the best 

in Southwest because she gives me and 

my brother so much love and attention. 

Sometimes, my mom and I have a motherdaughter 

day, and we do something like 

go to lunch, shopping or go to Disney 

World. I love the alone time with her, when 

we can just talk about things and create 

memories. 

On Christmas Eve, my mom makes this 

drink called Grinch Punch. It is Sprite with 

lime sorbet, and it is so good. On Christmas, 

we make Mickey Mouse-shaped cinnamon 

rolls with white creamy icing on top. 

One time, when we went to Disney 

World, it was raining so hard that by the 

WE’LL MAKE 

YOU LOOK LIKE 

A HERO 

time we came home, we were soaking wet. 

One night, my brother and Dad went to a 

basketball game, and my mom and I did 

face masks, watched a movie and went to 

Panera instead of going to the game. It was 

so much fun just to have that time with her. 

In the car we jam to ‘80s or ‘70s music. 

I couldn’t imagine a better mom. She is 

loving, loyal and very hardworking at her 

job, home and everywhere she goes. 

Lauren Gacek, 11 

MetroWest 

Her big, chocolate-brown eyes sparkle 

like diamonds in the sky. Her positive attitude 

is like a rainbow casting hope on 

my darkest days, and her passion for life 

is contagious. She is my mother, and I call 

her Mami. Mami is the best in this world 

because she carries the universe inside 

her and shares it with the world. 

Her beautiful heart is a galaxy of love. 

She seeks selfless ways to give abundantly 

of her time, resources and wisdom. I 

love talking to her every day. Just hearing 

her voice brings me joy. I especially 

love that she takes my yoga class every 

Wednesday. Her love can weather any 

storm or season. In fact, even when she 

may not understand or agree with me, 

she listens with an open heart and tries 

to understand. Her faith is like a mustard 

seed. I will never forget the time I was very 

ill, and the doctors told her there was no 

cure for me. Her belief that I was going to 

get better manifested. Thanks to my mom, 

I now am living a healthy, beautiful, abundant 

life. Having her by my side, anything 

is possible! 

I want to honor my beautiful mom, who 

turns 80 this year. Her passion for life 

radiates. Her belief in a better tomorrow 

gives me hope, and her love is endless 

like the universe. She may not have special 

powers or wear a cape, yet she is my 

superhero! 

Mana Heistand, adult 

Windermere Landings 

Wow, my mom is awesome! She is the 

most amazing mom. 

She makes me a better person. She gives 

advice when I need it in difficult times. She 

also pushes me to try new things. Most importantly, 

she lets me be myself. 

My mom comforts me and gives me a 

shoulder to cry on. When things are difficult, 

she encourages me and gives me 

hope. She stands up for me when I am 

mistreated. Overall, she shows me so much 

love. 

My mom cares for me 24/7. She provides 

me a yummy dinner every night. She doesn’t 

only provide me food, she gives me everything 

I need. My mom also puts me and 

others before herself. 

She is the best person and best mom 

because she makes me a better person, 

comforts me and cares for me. There are so 

many reasons my mom is the best. 

Katelyn Kelley, 11 

Windermere 

Why is my mother the best in Southwest 

Orlando? She is the best because she 

worked three different jobs at once just to 

make money for my family. She’s also a single 

mother with three kids and two dogs. 

She is one of the most hardworking people 

I ever met. She makes time to have family 

nights and movie nights. She makes time to 

take us to the doctor’s or the dentist’s, even 

though she doesn’t have time. She spends 

her money on us and rarely ever on herself. 

She also makes sure that we have what 

we need, even if she doesn’t have what she 

needs. 

My mom helps us with homework, 

and she keeps the house clean, too. She 

makes time early in the morning to make 

us breakfast or lunch for school. She also 

makes sure that I have clothes and shoes 

for school. 

Brooke Covino, 12 

Windermere 

My mom is the best mom ever. My mom 

had the highest stage of breast cancer. 

When she was getting her chemo treatment 

in New York City at Memorial Sloan 

Kettering Cancer Center, she was so brave. 

I know how hard it was for her because she 

could not see my siblings and me because 

we had to stay in Florida. 

My mom is the kindest person ever, and 

she is always there for me and my siblings. 

When I went to visit her in NYC, she was 

in so much pain, but she still put a smile 

on her face and pushed through her pain. 

I know my mom loves me and my siblings 

very much, and she wouldn’t trade us for 

the world. I am so happy for her because 

she is healthy now. 

My mom is a person who will be there 

for me when I am sad, happy and even 

when I am mad. I love her so much, and 

she loves me. I could not think of a better 

person to call my mom. 

Ryleigh Jenifer Justas, 10 

Southwest Orlando 

My mom is the best mom because she 

accepts everyone for who they are, supports 

me (nonbinary) and my transgender 

brother, Conor. She gave me the name 

Tadpole when I came out to her. She is a 

very kind and caring lady. She tries her 

hardest to keep all her kids happy with 

no job. She took on the role of father for 

me, and she does all of this with multiple 

sclerosis! That is why she is the best 

mom. 

Helena Plasse, 12 

Winter Garden 

Do you realize how important moms 

are? My mom is very special and does so 

much for me. From cooking dinner for our 

family to helping me with my homework, 

she truly is amazing. My mom is the best 

mom for many reasons. She drives me to

my extra classes. My mom does not have 

to take me, but she chooses to take me even 

though I have dance four times a week. It 

is very thoughtful of my mom to do this. I 

have four siblings, and my mom is very 

busy. Even though she has to deal with 

a 3-year-old and a baby, she somehow 

makes time for my classes. She also takes 

me, my brother and my sister to piano lessons 

every Wednesday. Right after piano, 

I have dance. Can you imagine having to 

constantly drive from one place to another 

every day? I’m so thankful that my mom is 

nice enough to do this for me. 

Without a doubt, my mom is the best mom 

in Southwest Orlando. She is the best mom 

I could ask for. She is kind, thoughtful, loving, 

trustworthy and much more. I’m so glad 

I have an amazing mom like mine. 

Taylor Salmon, 11 

Cypress Landing 

All moms are awesome because they are 

sweet. My mom is the best ever because she 

lets me eat her famous soup. If you want to 

know about my mom, she is very creative 

and likes to make soups for me. She is a 

teacher, and she’s the best teacher ever. She 

helps me with my homework if I need help. 

She goes on Facebook and encourages 

people. She goes to new places and helps 

the people there. She helps me, too. That’s 

why she’s the best! 

Iyanna McMillan, 7 

Ocoee 

My mother is the best mother in the 

world. Instead of feeding me junk food, she 

keeps me healthy by feeding me vegetables, 

helping me when I exercise, and helping 

me be the best that I can be. Without 

her, I don’t know what I’d do. My mother is 

my life and soul. She helps me get what I 

want, but she makes me work for it. When I 

work for it, I don’t become spoiled. 

My mother has many talents. She is an 

art and yoga teacher, she is an amazing 

cook, and she works at the Hope Center to 

help people without homes find comfort. 

She always treats people with love and 

kindness. Even when I make her so mad 

that her head is about to explode, she tries 

to be peaceful. She has taught me and my 

sister, Catalina, how to be kind, loving 

and understanding. She strives to make us 

our best selves. 


She makes sure that we get good grades 

in school and helps us become better. My 

mother is a great role model to her children 

and to the pre-K students that she teaches. 

If any of our friends need help, she does not 

hesitate to help them. Her whole family lives 

4,000 miles away, and she puts up with it 

amazingly by paying more than $1,000 to 

go and visit them. I couldn’t ask for more. 

Bianca Laham, 11 

Dr. Phillips 

Is there a person who is always there for 

you? Is there a person who helps you? Well, 

my mom is that person. She is the best mom 

in the world. 

My mom helps me do better. She is a 

very honest person, so when I do something 

wrong, she will tell me and help me do it 

better. When I don’t understand something, 

she helps me. And sometimes, I am the one 

who helps her! 

Now let’s talk about how my mom loves 

me. I know she loves me because we have 

a very good time when we are together. 

When we are apart, we miss each other. I 

also know she loves me because she thinks 

about me, and I think about her. 

My mom is there for me. For example, 

my mom was there for me on my first day at 

Thornebrooke Elementary School. She goes 

to all my competitions and cheers for me. 

When I get upset or scared, she tells me it is 

OK and makes me happy. One time, when 

we went to the doctor and I was scared, 

my mom held my hand tightly and made 

me feel safe. 

As you can see, my mom is the best 

because she helps me, loves me and is 

there for me. I hope you have an amazing 

Mother’s Day. I am sure I will because I have 

an amazing mom with me. 

Julieta Lorenzo, 9 

Westover Reserve 

Hi, Mom. Do you know how much I love 

you? Wait and read this! 

I love you, Mom, because you helped 

me be brave when I got a third of my tooth 

pulled out at the dentist office in Chennai, 

India. It really hurt, but you helped me get 

used to it. 

I love you, Mom, because you celebrated 

my goal toward the 25-point Club and 




bought me a toy. You helped me get to the 

50-, 75- and 100-point clubs and celebrated 

them, too. 

I love you, Mom, because you spend time 

with me everywhere you go. You took me to 

the Westman Islands in Iceland to see Toti 

the puffin bird. I was lucky that you got to 

take me there. 

I love you, Mom, because you give cuddles, 

kisses and hugs. You urged me to win 

the talent show. Because of you, I won first 

place and became famous for acting in a 

movie, since you told me to act in a movie. 

I love you, Mom, because you bought me 

toys when I was 1 to 4 years old. You let me 

give hugs to you whenever you are upset. 

You console me when I’m upset, too. 

I have some questions: What made you 

love me? Where is the No. 1 place you 

started to love me? Who made you love me? 

When did you start to love me? Can I make 

chocolate spaghetti? 

Dhilan Krishnan, 8 

Windsor Landing 

Roses are red, violets are blue. My mama 

is the best, I love her, too! 

As a mother of seven, my mom works 

very hard to help us grow to be successful 

people. Even if I get a bad grade, my mom 

loves me. Even if I break her favorite vase, 

my mom loves me. No matter what I do, she 

loves me. My mom is always available for 

me and my siblings. 

My mom is the best chef. Since we are 

Hispanic, she cooks a lot of Spanish food. 

Even when she is mad, she finds a way to be 

compassionate. When I am sad, she makes 

me smile. My mom’s bad jokes, holiness, 

funniness and loveliness will always be big 

parts of my life. Like all mothers, my mom 

OFFERING TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS 

disciplines me and my siblings, but my mom 

is the best mom ever! 

Clara Morales Flores, 11 

Windermere 

My mom is the best because she lets 

me do everything with her, like workout 

and go to my brother’s baseball games 

and St. Augustine. We might get into 

some fights, but she means the world to 

me. Without her, I would not exist. She 

was there when I broke my arm after 

my birthday party. I would do anything 

for her. 

Makenzie Edwards, 9 

Winter Garden 

What does the word “mom” mean to 

you? When I use the word “mom,” I’m referring 

to the most kind, pretty and hardworking 

woman I know. My mom is funny. 

Even when I am sad and don’t feel like 

laughing, she is there with a joke or funny 

statement to make my day better. She is 

there, making sure I am OK. I know that 

no matter what challenge I face, I won’t 

have to do it alone because she’ll be there 

to help. 

Something else I know about my mom 

is that she is an extremely hardworking 

person. Recently, my mom’s company was 

bought out, and soon after that, one of her 

coworkers quit. This has caused a lot of 

strain in her company, but my mom is persevering. 

She has even been working later 

to make sure everything gets done. 

She also lets me be myself. From something 

as small as the clothes I wear to 

something bigger like my after-school 

activities, she lets me make my own decisions. 

My mom finds a way to be both an 

amazing mother and a wonderful person, 

Rachael Pittala, A.R.P.N-BC 

Brooke Parker, LMHC 

Rachael Pittala 

A.R.P.N-BC 

se habla español 

who works hard and puts 110% into everything 

she does. 

Harper Evans, 10 

Gotha 

The thing that makes my mom special is 

her never-ending love for me and my two sisters, 

Alexa and Vanessa. Not a day goes 

by that she does not push us to practice, to 

try to be the best in our classes, help all people 

and to do our best. I am extremely lucky 

to have the mom that I have. Without my 

mom, I would faint. The example my mom 

sets is amazing. She is a role model for all 

people she meets. She is smart, charismatic, 

a great cook, and does whatever she can to 

help us as athletes in baseball (me) and basketball 

(me and my sisters). Even if her day 

is bad, she tries to set these example for us. 

She looks to fix my swing, my pitching 

technique and whatever she can find to help 

me. She will strive for us to have perfection, 

and without her, I don’t know if I would be 

where I am today as a student, son and athlete. 

She believes in me and will cheer her 

heart out for me and will never give up on 

our dreams. Because of her encouragement, 

I know I will achieve my goal to be a major 

league baseball player and then a future 

Hall Of Famer. I love my mom to the GNz11 

galaxy (farthest galaxy from earth) and 

back. Thank you, God, for the mother I have. 

Kobi Nethercutt, 11 

MetroWest 

My mom is daring and tries new things, 

just like me! She went scuba diving, saw a 

shark and didn’t even flinch. No matter how 

old she gets, she will still be crazy, static, 

cool and goofy. She is super brave and 

crazy. She goes on fast, up-and-down, twistand-turn 

roller coasters. We scream and put 

our hands up when we get to the tippy top. 

She does funny Tik Tok dances with me. 

She went scuba diving with me and our 

family. I got scared because I had never 

been scuba diving before, but she protected 

me. My mom got her and my hair braided in 

the Bahamas. It hurt really badly, but it was 

worth the wait. 

She takes the time out of her day to check 

on me if I’m scared and home alone. She 

makes me breakfast, even when she’s been 

up late working with my dad and his company. 

She sacrifices her time to drive me 

and my sister to volleyball tournaments and 

practices, even when it’s not good timing. 

My mom makes me feel special and comfortable. 

She calls me beautiful when I’m at 

my worst. She rubs my back when I have a 

really bad headache. She doesn’t get mad or 

sad when I make a mistake or get something 

wrong. No matter how old my mom gets, she 

will still be crazy, static, cool and goofy. My 

mom will always be the best in my eyes. 

Naomi Harris, 11 

Southwest Orlando 

It is hard to describe the person that will 

never get mad at me, even if I burn the 

house down. It’s hard not to cry when you 

think about the future. When you think about 

how, one day, you will not have that person 

to protect and teach you about the world. 

I talk to you about things I am too afraid 

to say out loud. You always find a way to 

put a smile on my face, even when I am sad 

or angry. Every day you tell me that you will 

love me always and forever. You are the only 

person I can be myself around. You get that 

just because I have a smile on my face doesn’t 

mean I am happy. When I am with you, I am 

happy. I will always love you to the moon and 

back. To be honest, every mom is a hero, but 

the difference between you and them is that 

you are my hero. I struggle to find words to 

describe you because you are perfect. The 

only words that describe you are "my mother." 

Isabella Salgado, 10 

Winter Garden 

My mom is my best friend. I don’t think 

I would be able to get through life without 

her. She’s there for me and never wants to 

see me upset. Whenever I need new clothes 

because I’ve outgrown mine, she’s always 

ready to look for new ones. We both love 

Disney, nails, clothes and HGTV shows. Love 

It or List It is one of our favorites! We love to 

hang out together when we get the chance, 

and we love hanging out together with our 

best friends. My mom’s best friend’s daughter 

is my best friend, and the four of us are 

inseparable. 

We also share an obsession with shopping, 

like seriously. We shop until we drop. 

My mom usually takes me to basketball and 

sits in the upstairs area, watching me practice. 

She’s always been my No. 1 supporter. 

She encourages me to get up, even when I 

hit the ground. This just shows why my mom 

is so great. I’m very lucky to have her. 

Ava Chmielinski, 12 

Winter Garden

My mom is the best mom in the world. Let 

me tell you why. First, she gives me yummy 

snacks. Next, my mom gives me sweet hugs 

and kisses. Last, she tucks me in at night. As 

you can see, my mom is awesome. 

Kiera Woodard, 7 

Summerlake 

I believe my mom is the best because she 

is nice, kind, pretty, giving, grateful, talented 

and just awesome, but that’s not all. I love 

my mom so much because she is strong and 

an icon. 

She gave up being a celebrity for me and 

my siblings. If my mom was still a popstar, 

who would take care of us? 

My mom is fun. During quarantine, other 

kids got bored. Well, not me. My mom tried to 

make my stay at home the funniest one ever. I 

went on a road trip, played and smiled, and 

all of that was because of my mom. 

My mom and I have some funny stories. 

One time, she was helping me with math, 

but then I corrected her, and she said, “Why 

is Jacob having nine hotdogs? He should 

have one.” 

My mom tries to make me smile whenever 

I get a bad grade. She says, “Don’t worry. 

We can work on this together.” 

She is having trouble being very far from 

her parents. They live in Wales. My mom 

has not seen her parents in about a year because 

of the coronavirus. She got both her 

vaccines and still did not get to visit. 

My mom is strong. She helps a lot with 

my new house, and at the same time, she 

makes me and my siblings breakfast, lunch 

and dinner. 

Whenever she uses Amazon, she uses 

Smile. It donates money to a charity instead 

of giving money to a random stranger. 

Love your mom the best you can and keep 

on shining! 

Bethan Russo, 9 

Lake Down Crest 

Mãe você a minha melhor amiga. Mom, 

you are my best friend. You help me, love 

me, care for me and teach me, and you are 

trustworthy. Você e a melhor mae de todas 

because you are there for me. Eu so atribuida 

para fazia isso por voce mas isso vem 

do meu coracao, o topo, meio e fim. 

Primerio, you support me and guide me to 

make the right decisions. Like that time with 

the earrings, you let me get double piercings, 

and you did everything you could to 

help me. Most importantly, you care. You 

don’t let me fail or do what I want or whatever. 

You guide me. 

Próximo, you can stand my talking. You 

talk to me about everything! Plus, you help 

me control my talking, sort of. You actually 

listen to me. You are probably the only one 

in this world who can stand my talking, except 

for God. 

Último, you are trustworthy. You have 

never, ever lied to me. You never prank me 

or try to scare me. You never laugh at someone’s 

downfall or struggles. You don’t ever 

break my trust in you. No matter what, you 

tell me the truth. 

Em conclusão, Mãe. I don’t know what I 

would do without you. You are what helps 

keep me going, except for God. Eu te amo 

muito. I love you so much. Você sera a melhor 

mãe do mundo. You are my mom, my 

shelter. Happy Mother’s Day. 

Lua Cysneiros, 11 

Ocoee 

My mommy is the best. She took me to 

Mexico to see the Mayan pyramids for my 

birthday. We also go to other fun places. 

Mommy and I make crafts and watch movies 

together. She gives me healthy food and 

helps me install new room decorations. I 

love my mommy because she buys me lots of 

toys and teaches me about other countries 

and cultures. 

Stanley Sheridan, 7 

Overlook at Hamlin 

My mom is the best because she does 

a lot of stuff we can’t do. She makes sure 

we do well in school and life. She helps me 

with anything I need. I help her because she 

has to work two jobs. I don’t really get to 

see her, but when she gets off early, we can 

do something fun. She takes weekends off 

sometimes, so we can hang out. 

She will do anything for us. She just gets 

a little mad if me and my brother argue. My 

mom and I love to do crafts together, and 

we love painting. When she gets home from 

work, I help her with dinner or help with the 

puppies. She has a lot to do, so sometimes 

she works late, until 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. or even 

9 p.m. 

I love her because she has a big heart, 

and she is the only one with her personality, 

her creativity and her look. I don’t think anyone 

can be like her. She can be goofy sometimes 

and sad other times or mad because 


me and my brother fight a lot. She is very 

creative, and she loves doing stuff with me 

and my brother. She will do anything to 

make us happy when we’re down. I can’t 

wait to see her. She can do anything if she 

does not give up. If she messes something 

up, she does it again. She keeps trying, no 

matter what it is. 

Brooke Bean, 11 

Winter Garden 

My mother is the best because she loves 

me even when I make mistakes. She helps 

me with my bruises and scrapes, and every 

morning, she wakes up at 5 a.m. to make 

breakfast for our busy beehive. She bakes 

cookies and special treats, and when it’s 

evening, she makes us dinner. While we 

clear plates, we have a dance party. Then, 

we go outside and play football until everyone 

is tired. Then, my mother tucks us in and 

reads stories to us and sings lullabies until 

we fall asleep. 

Chloe Gutierrez, 9 

Parkside 

Moms, they are always with us no matter 

what. But my mom is a little different. She 

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does so much more than just be with me, she 

makes me feel loved. 

I recently had surgery, and my mom was 

with me the entire time. I remember walking 

in the room and the doctor saying that I had 

to get my appendix removed. I was devastated. 

But, my mom was with me through the 

surgery. 

One of the best features of my mom is 

her smile. Her smile goes from ear to ear. 

It makes you feel loved and, most of all, 

appreciated. 

She always says, “Show me, don’t tell 

me,” when I say I can but really can’t. Those 

words make me try so much harder and motivate 

me to achieve my dreams in life. 

We have so much in common, so if I say 

that she is great that means that I must be 

great, too. We are the same, from the color of 

our hair to our passion to achieve our goals. 

Clearly, my mom deserves so much in life, 

and I hope to give it all to her. I owe her my 

life. She wants the best and only the best for 

me and that is that. At the end, my mom is 

the best in the Southwest! 

Skylar Seaberg, 11 

Meadow Ridge 


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“To describe my mother would be to 

write about a hurricane in its perfect 

power. Or the climbing, falling colors of a 

rainbow.” ~ Maya Angelou 

My mom, Karen Mitchell, is my world. 

She knows me better than I know myself. My 

mom is my hero. Through the sacrifices she 

makes, she shows unconditional love for my 

two sisters and me. Not only is she my mom, 

she is my best friend. She has a strong faith 

and lives it every day. She prays daily for 

my family and is my biggest supporter. 

She has not always been in the best 

health. In 2016, she had a health challenge. 

She originally had pneumonia, but her condition 

worsened over time. Her life was in 

danger, and she spent a lot of time in the 

hospital. She had an amazing recovery. 

My mom has had such an important impact 

on my life. My mom challenges me to 

be my best self and do my best. She is always 

there for me. She picks me up when I 

fall. She loves me no matter what. I am so 

blessed to have a mother who loves me unconditionally. 

She gives me care, happiness 

and strength. I thank God every day to have 

a mother like my mom, Karen Mitchell. 

Gracelyn Mitchell, 14 

Stoneybrook West 

My mom makes me feel good. She encourages 

me by saying thoughtful, nice 

things. That makes me feel confident. My 

mom also motivates me to be a better person. 

She once told me to be like an eagle 

and soar higher than all the other birds. I 

love her for that. My mother also tells me to 

be confident. I’m constantly worrying about 

what other people think and say about me, 

but my mom tells me not to care, and it 

helps me. 

Moreover, my dear, beloved mother 

brightens up my day. When I come home 

from school, my mother flashes her charming, 

bright smile at me. Another thing that highlights 

my day is her happiness. Whenever 

she goes to work, she never forgets to say, 

“Good morning,” to her fellow workmates. If 

my mom is in a bad mood, she still manages 

to sprinkle some happiness around. The last 

thing I love is her confidence. I envy it because 

I have no confidence whatsoever. My 

mom is who I want to be like because of that 

delightful feature. 

My mother gives me her attention and 

time. One time, I was in her office, and she 

came to see if I was hungry when she was 

supposed to be in a meeting. This shows she 

is very caring. Another time was when I had 

a science project, and I needed help. My 

mom took time out of her schedule to help 

me. She always helps me with my needs. 

Jiji Valois, 11 

Westminster Landing 

My mom makes sure all my needs are 

met by feeding me three meals a day plus 

healthy snacks. She provides me with a 

home with a solid roof over my head and 

a proper bed to sleep in. She makes sure 

that I wear clean clothes without stains 

and/or holes in them. She makes sure that 

I have good mental health and nothing is 

bothering me. 

My mom is supportive of me. She knows 

when I am struggling with schoolwork, and 

she helps me. Sports are important to me, 

and my mom is always there rooting me on. 

My health comes first, so she takes me to 

every doctor’s appointment and makes sure 

my shots are up to date. She would never 

want me to be sick or hurt. 

My mom is patient and understanding 

with me, and she listens to me no matter 

what the circumstances are. She will always 

accept me regardless of which pronoun I 

identify with. She knows deep down inside 

how I am feeling and only wants the best for 

me. My mom will always be there for me, 

and I am lucky she is all mine! 

Madison Wexler, 12 

Black Lake Park 

Do you need some glue? Well, my mom is 

the most wonderful glue out there. She has 

helped to keep me together even through the 

toughest times. She has always been there 

for me no matter what I’m facing, whether 

it’s having a bad day at school or breaking 

my arm. She is still the same supporting 

person. Even when she is having a bad day, 

she wants to make sure mine is the best possible. 

I know my mom will always be there. I 

want to be as good a parent as she is when 

I have kids, but it won’t be easy. 

When I was younger, I thought the only 

point of life was to get money. Thanks to my 

mom, she has shown that there is so much 

more to life like friends and family. I love my 

mom because when I make a mistake, there 

is no consequence. She turns it into a lesson. 

My mom is best because she not only 

helps me, but she helps the local community 

by donating to important charities like Toys 

for Tots and food drives and donates gifts 

for kids whose parents don’t have enough. 

My mom is the best. She is so much more 

than the best mom in the Southwest! 

Zachary Martin, 11 

Windsor Landing 

My mom is the best because she is the 

best cuddler and the best at giving snuggles. 

She makes really good lunches for me to 

take to school. (Blake) 

Mom makes good ham and cheese sandwiches, 

and she takes me to MyGym, music 

class and Princesses & Princes. (Drew) 

Blake Hanigosky, 5, & Drew 

Hanigosky, 2 1/2 

Regency Oaks at Stone Crest 

My mom is the best mom because she 

cooks for me. I remember I was feeling sad 

one time, and she cooked my favorite dinner 

— pasta and red sauce. My mom plays with 

me when I don’t have anybody to play with, 

like when my sister did not include me, Mom 

played soccer with me. 

Did you know she lets me buy stuff, and 

one time, she was the best mother in the 

world by letting me get my ears pierced 

when I was only 4 years old. She snuggles 

with me when I’m sad. When I tell her something 

bad happened, and I get in trouble, 

she hugs me. She takes care of two amazing 

daughters. If one of us gets hurt, she will run 

outside and help us. 

I love my mother so much! I cannot wait 

until she reads this. Please, give a big 

shoutout to my mom, Stacie Chiddister! 

I love you so much, Mommy! 

Eva Chiddister, 8 

Turnburry Woods 

My mom is the best. She is always up to 

trying something new. My mom loves roller 

coasters and always goes on them with 

me. She went on Rip Ride Rocket with me 

at Universal Studios. I was crazy-scared, but 

my mom comforted me through it. It ended 

up being great! My mom is so brave, she 

has even gone on The Hulk! She has gone 

skydiving two or three times. My mom is super 

adventurous. 

My mother comforts me in rough times. 

When I need help studying math, science 

or language arts, she jumps up and offers to 

help even when I don’t ask. She talks to me 

with care and kindness in her voice. She is 

caring and kind. 

My mom makes time for me and my 

family, and she is considerate. She sometimes 

comes home from work early to talk 

with me and enjoy quality time. She even 

picks me up from school and leaves work 

to bring me to singing lessons. My mom 

puts others before herself. She makes sure 

I do the things I love, such as singing and 

the play. 

My mom does everything for us, and she 

deserves so much love. She’s the best mom 

in the universe. 

Morgan Papp, 11 

Windermere 

My mom is the best because she gives me 

food and stuff. She loves me and plays with 

me ... every game ... even boxing. Every 

time I go to the pool, she pushes me in. It 

scares me, but I like it a lot. My mom makes 

me snacks like chicken fingers. She reads 

me books, too. After I read my books, she 

lets me play my Nintendo Wii. 

My mom taught me how to golf, put on 

my pajamas, and relax. If I am a wild boy, 

she makes me relax ... usually around 8 

o’clock. That is the time she reminds me to 

brush my teeth, too. She makes sure I don’t 

have any monsters in my mouth. 

My mom lets me cook paratha (flatbread). 

She got me a Mickey Mouse apron to keep 

me clean. When I help her cook, my mom 

calls me chef Jeff. 

When Mom picks me up from school, she 

makes sure I get my “magic soap” (hand 

sanitizer) every day. If I am a good boy during 

the week, my mom goes to Starbucks 

and gets me a hot chocolate and cake pop. 

Every time I think of my mom, I think of 

dancing. She is my dancing queen. She lets 

me disco — but I have energy, so that is 

about one minute, and then she is tired. 

I love you, Mama. 

Aadi Ruiz, 5 

Dr. Phillips 

The staff of the Southwest Orlando Bulletin 

extends special thanks to everyone who 

participated in the 30th annual Best Mom in 

Southwest Contest. 

Editor’s note: Entries may have been edited for grammar, 

punctuation, length and content. To pay tribute to as many 

“Best Moms” as possible, In Your Neighborhood, School 

News and Southwest Sports do not appear in this issue. ª

n Charities/Fundraisers 

May 8 — Paws In The Park 

Downtown Orlando’s Lake Eola Park hosts 

the 27th annual Paws in the Park pet festival, 

including adoptable pets, doggy sports, a 

costume contest, photo stations, doggy fun 

zone, pet-friendly vendors, food trucks and 

more. Attendees are encouraged to register 

now and start fundraising. Participants who 

raise $15 receive a commemorative dog bandana, 

and those who raise $75 receive an 

event T-shirt. Paws in the Park is also featuring 

a virtual component this year for people who 

prefer to take part from home. Time: 10 a.m.- 

4 p.m. Admission is free. Proceeds benefit 

Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando. For more 

information, visit www.petallianceorlando. 

org or www.pawsinthepark.org. 

May 8-29 — Crazy Plants For Crazy 

Critters 

The Crazy Plants Nursery, 22919 County 

Road 44A, Eustis, hosts the Crazy Plants for 

Crazy Critters plant sale fundraiser to raise 

funds for a construction project for rescued 

birds. Time: Wednesdays-Saturdays from 

10 a.m.-3 p.m. The nonprofit offers nondomestic, 

nonreleasable animals a safe, permanent 

home. For more information, email 

crazycritters@crazycrittersinc.com or visit 

crazycrittersinc.com/plant-sale-fundraiser. 

COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD 

n Children’s Program 

May 13 — Virtual Japanese Koinobori 

Craft 

The Orange County Library System hosts 

a Japanese Koinobori Craft for ages 9-12 

via Zoom. The story and craft celebrate children 

and their happiness. Supplies needed 

are various colors of construction paper, 

streamers or tissue paper (various colors 

and optional), scissors, glue stick or tape, 

and markers/crayons. Time: 4-4:45 p.m. 

Registration is required to receive a Zoom 

link. For more information, visit attend.ocls. 

info/event/5038923. 

n Classes/Programs 

May 13, 20 & 27 — Men’s Online Book 

Study 

St. Luke’s United Methodist Church hosts a men’s 

online study on the book Love Matters More. 

Time: Thursdays from 7:45-9 a.m. via Zoom. For 

more information or to register, visit u.st.lukes. 

org/default.aspx?page=3433&event=12764. 


May 23 — Virtual Meet The Authors 

In celebration of Asian American and 

Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the Orange 

County Library System hosts a virtual Meet 

the Authors, featuring a panel discussion 

from authors Erin Entrada Kelly, Lori M. 

Lee, Roselle Lim and Mia P. Manasala. 

The virtual event is hosted on Facebook/ 

YouTube Live. Time: 4-5 p.m. For more 

information, visit attend.ocls.info/event/ 

5029732. 

n Miscellaneous 

compiled by Lisa Sagers 

Through May 30 — Pints & Parables 

St. Luke’s United Methodist Church invites 

adults to have a drink and join its Pints 

& Parables, a weekly online community 

that discusses the matters of life in today’s 

world, faith, philosophy, theology and 

more. Registration is required to receive 

a Zoom link. Time: Thursdays from 8:30- 

9:30 p.m. For more information or to register, 

email lvasquez@st.lukes.org or visit 

www.st.lukes.org/adults. 

Through May 30 — Nerd Church 

St. Luke’s United Methodist Church invites 

adults to participate in Nerd Church, an 

opportunity to engage in meaningful discussion 

about biblical concepts through the 

lens of comics, video games and movies. 

Registration is required to receive a Zoom link. 

Time: Mondays at 7 p.m. For more information 

or to register, email lvasquez@st.lukes.org or 

visit www.st.lukes.org/adults. 

n Networking/Clubs 

Ongoing — Members Wanted 

The West Orange Women seeks women of all 

ages to join its group for fun, friendship and philanthropy. 

Annual dues are $20. For more information, 

call Mary Borgan, 407-929-3030; or visit 

www.westorangewomen.com. 

May 11, 18 & 25 — Virtual 

Toastmasters Meetings 

The Seventh-day Adventist Church Hall, 

4100 McKinnon Road, Windermere, hosts 

Windermere Toastmasters Club No. 4662754 

meetings. Attendees learn to develop their oral 

communication and leadership skills in a supportive 

and positive learning environment. 


To submit photos, email lauren@kearneypublishing.com 

Send us your favorite photo — old or new — of you 

and your dad. The best ones, as judged by our editorial 

staff, will win your dad the coveted title of That's My Dad 

Winner! Even if you don't win, your picture could appear 

as an honorable mention in the Southwest Orlando 

Bulletin. Don't delay! All photos must be received by May 

26 for a chance to appear in our June 17 issue. 

Be sure to include your name, address, phone number, email address, your 

dad's name and your dad's neighborhood. Feel free to include any additional 

information about the photo. You and your dad must reside in Southwest 

Orlando. Professional photos will not be considered. 

That’s My 

DAD! 

William Shakespeare once wrote, 

“It is a wise father that knows his 

own child.” When Southwest 

fathers are not busy being 

all-around superheroes for their 

families, they are busy becoming 

experts on their children. From 

favorite toys to secret sayings, 

good dads share a bond with 

their children like no other. And 

the fathers in Southwest Orlando 

Bulletin’s milestone 27th annual 

That’s My Dad! photo contest are 

no exception. 

This annual photo album, 

dedicated to Southwest Orlando 

dads, is one way to say thanks for 

all the time spent on learning the 

ins and outs of fatherhood, and to 

show our local dads that they are 

loved and appreciated every day. 

The staff of the Southwest Orlando 

Bulletin hopes all Southwest dads 

had a wonderful Father’s Day! 

JEWELS OF THE SEA — 

Windermere Chase 

dad Cori Britt treasures 

son Max and 

daughter Addie. 

2020 Winner 2019 Winner



Time: Tuesdays at 7 p.m. For more information, visit 

www.windermeretoastmasters.org. 

May 11, 18 & 25 — Virtual 


Windermere Toastmasters Club No. 4662754 

holds Zoom meetings. Attendees learn to 

develop their oral communication and leadership 

skills in a supportive and positive learning 

environment. Time: Tuesdays from 7-8:30 

p.m. For more information or to request online 

Zoom meeting details, visit www.4662754. 

toastmastersclubs.org and click “Contact Us.” 

May 12, 19 & 26 — Virtual 


The Turnpike Toastmasters Club holds Zoom meetings. 

Time: Wednesdays from noon-1 p.m. For 

more information or to register for a virtual meeting, 

visit 2362.toastmastersclubs.org and click 

“Contact Us” at least one day before the event. 

May 13 — West Orange Republican 

Women Luncheon 

The West Orange Republican Women, 

Federated Club hosts a luncheon meeting 

featuring Lt. Col. (Retired) Adam West, current 

chairman of the Republican Party of 

Texas and former U.S. congressman for 

Florida’s 22nd district, at Arnold Palmer Bay 

Hill Club & Lodge, 9000 Bay Hill Blvd., 

Orlando. Reservations are required. Time: 11 

a.m. For more information or to RSVP, email 

worw.federated@gmail.com. 

May 13, 20 & 27 — Virtual 


The Vista Toastmasters Club holds Zoom meetings. 

Time: Thursdays from 7-8:30 p.m. For 

more information, email vistatoastmasters.zoom@ 

gmail.com or visit www.vistatoastmasters.org. 

n Support Groups 

May 11 & June 8 — Virtual Support 

Group Meetings For Caregivers 

The Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center 

sponsors free support group meetings for caregivers 

in the Suite 281 Conference Room (next 

to the south elevators on the second floor) at 

Health Central Hospital, 10000 W. Colonial 

Drive, Ocoee. Time: second Tuesday of each 

month at 6 p.m. For more information, call 407- 

843-1910 or visit www.adrccares.org. 

May 11 & 25 — Mental Health Support 

Group Meetings 

Building C at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 

4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando, hosts 

free individual and family support group meetings 

for individuals affected by mental illness. 

Individuals meet in Room C-206, and families meet 

in the Founder’s Hall. The 90-minute meeting is 

peer-led and helps participants connect with each 

other, learn from each other’s experiences, share 

coping strategies and offer each other encouragement 

and understanding. Time: the second 

and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. 

For more information, call 407-253-1900, email 

information@namigo.org or visit www.namigo.org. 

May 17, June 7 & 21 — Virtual Youth 

Grief Support Group Meetings 

The Cornerstone Hospice Bereavement Team 

holds virtual youth grief support group meetings 

for children 6-11 struggling with the loss 

of a loved one or feeling anxious, upset or 

confused because of the pandemic. Groups 

are free and open to the public. Registration 

is required. Time: first and third Monday of 

each month from 3-4 p.m. For more information 

or to register, call 866-742-6655 or visit 

www.cornerstonehospice.org. 

May 18, June 1 & 15 — Virtual Teen 

Grief Support Group Meetings 


holds virtual teen grief support group meetings 

for teens 12-17 struggling with the loss 

of a loved one or feeling anxious, upset or 

confused because of the pandemic. Groups 

are free and open to the public. Registration is 

required. Time: first and third Tuesday of each 

month from 5-6 p.m. For more information or 

to register, call 866-742-6655 or visit www. 

cornerstonehospice.org. 

May 19, June 2 & 16 — Virtual Teen 

Talks Support Group Meetings 


holds virtual teen talks support group meetings 

for teens 12-17. Groups are free and 

open to the public. Registration is required. 

Time: first and third Wednesday of each 

month from 3:30-4:30 p.m. For more information 

or to register, call 866-742-6655 or visit 

www.cornerstonehospice.org. 

n Volunteers Needed 

Ongoing — Volunteers Needed 

My Brother’s Keeper seeks volunteers — especially 

adult men (18-older) of color — who can 

serve as positive role models and mentor boys 

and young men of color. For more information, 

email Grace, gdearden@vcifl.org, at Volunteers 

for Community Impact. 

Contributions to Community Bulletin Board are welcome. 

Please send information six weeks before the event to P.O. 

Box 851, Windermere, FL 34787; call 407-351-1573, option 

5; or email Lisa@kearneypublishing.com. ª 

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P.O. Box 851 

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050621 SWB DIGITAL EDITION

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