052021 SWB DIGITAL EDITION

O 

SPRING REAL ESTATE, INSURANCE & FINANCIAL DIRECTORY 

The heartbeat of the community 

ORLANDO BULLETIN 

May 20 — June 2, 2021 | Since 1986 

Ron the 

Realtor 

Ron Ziolkowski, known as Ron the Realtor, is the 

No. 1 Re/Max Realtor in Florida for four consecutive years 

and a Best of Southwest Realtor for six years. 

©Jason Cannon/Cannonfirephoto.com

www.SouthwestOrlandoBulletin.com x May 20 — June 2, 2021 x 3

4 x May 20 — June 2, 2021 x www.SouthwestOrlandoBulletin.com 

G ET ALL 

THE G OODNE SS 

NATURE C AN OFFER.

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

HOW TO .......................................................................................... 6 

Mix a Perfect Summer Cocktail 

www.SouthwestOrlandoBulletin.com x May 20 — June 2, 2021 x 5 

BUSINESS PROFILE ............................................................................ 8 

Chamberlin's Natural Foods 

NEWS & BUSINESS BRIEFS ................................................................ 9 

IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ............................................................. 13 

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE ................................................................. 16 

Ron the Realtor 

SOUTHWEST ORLANDO HOME & REAL ESTATE ................................ 17 

Get Your Patio Ready for Summer Living! 

Does Your Garage Floor Need a Makeover? 

Is Your Home at Risk for an Electrical Fire? 

Spruce Up for Spring! 

Spring Real Estate, Insurance & Financial Directory 

SAVE TIME • SAVE MONEY 

SUMMER KIDS CALENDAR ............................................................... 27 

TOURISM UPDATE ........................................................................... 32 

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

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

May 20, 2021 

Volume XXXV, No. 14 

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 

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©2021/Cornerstone Publishing & Multi-Media LLC 

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER 

Rick V. Martin 

VICE PRESIDENT 

Yvette Martin 

MANAGING EDITOR 

Lisa Sagers 

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT 

Lauren Salinero 

FREELANCE WRITER 

Blair Parke 

CIRCULATION 

Robert Barlow 

MARKETING CONSULTANTS 

Madeline DeVito 

407-351-1573, option 1 

mdevito@kearneypublishing.com 

Michelle Oakes 

321-277-3467 

michelle 

@cornerstonepublishinggroup.com 

Weekly Sessions from 

June 7 to August 6, 2021 

www.mgtennis.com


It may not officially be summer yet, 

but that hasn’t stopped temperatures 

from soaring into the 90s. Whether you 

choose to cool off lounging by a pool, 

breathing in salty air at the ocean, or 

floating down a spring, the only thing 

more refreshing than the water is a perfect 

summer cocktail. 

The following recipes are some of 

my favorite go-to mixers for a relaxing 

summer afternoon. The best part is that 

most of them can be altered to your personal 

tastes or whatever you have in the 

kitchen. Don’t like vodka? Try replacing it 

with gin in the Watermelon Mule. Have 

leftover pineapple juice but no mango 

juice? Turn the Mango Mimosa into a 

Pineapple Mimosa. Don’t have Tabasco 

sauce for your Bloody Mary? Use any 

hot sauce you have on hand and go 

crazy adding your own spices. 

Use these recipes as bases to make 

your own unique summer cocktails: 

1 lime wedge, juiced 

4 ounces ginger beer 

Mint leaves to garnish 

HOW 

Method: 

Puree watermelon chunks in a blender 

until smooth. Strain and discard the pulp 

to make 1/4 cup watermelon juice. Add 

watermelon juice, vodka and lime juice 

with ice to a shaker. Shake well. Strain 

cocktail into an ice-filled copper mug 

(optional) or any glass you have handy. 

Top with ginger beer, and garnish with a 

watermelon wedge and mint sprigs. 

TO ... 

Mix a Perfect Summer Cocktail 

Cool Off With a Tropical Drink 

by Lauren Salinero 

1/2 cup brandy 

2 oranges, one juiced and one 

diced 

1 green apple, diced 

1 lemon, diced 

1 cinnamon stick 

2 tablespoons sugar 

Method: 

Combine all ingredients in a large 

pitcher. Cover and refrigerate for 

at least 30 minutes. Serve over ice. 

Option: Top off each glass with a 

splash of soda or sparkling water. 

Watermelon Mule 

Ingredients: 

2/3 cup seedless watermelon chunks 

1 1/2 ounces citrus vodka 

Red Sangria 

Ingredients: 

2 bottles Spanish red wine (for 

traditional Sangria, use a wine 

like Rioja) 

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Bloody Mary 

Ingredients: 

4 ounces tomato juice 

2 ounces vodka 

1 teaspoon salt 

2 teaspoons horseradish 

2 dashes Tabasco sauce 

2 dashes Worcestershire sauce 

1 pinch ground pepper 

1 pinch smoked paprika 

Method: 

Combine ingredients with ice in a 

shaker. Shake gently and pour into 

a glass over ice. The options for garnish 

are endless — pepperoni, pickles, 

cheddar cheese cubes, celery 

stalk and green olives are popular 

choices. 

Mango Mimosa 

Ingredients: 

1 part mango nectar or juice 

2 parts Champagne or prosecco 

Strawberries or mango slices to 

garnish 

Method: 

Combine mango juice and 

Champagne in a Champagne glass. 

Adjust the ratio to make your drink 

more mango-heavy or boozier. 

Garnish with strawberry and mango 

slices. 

Summer cocktails can be delicious and 

easy to make. 

Bubbles on the Beach 

Ingredients: 

2 ounces pineapple juice 

1 ounce vodka 

1 ounce peach schnapps 

12 ounces lemon-lime soda 

Method: 

Combine pineapple juice, vodka 

and peach schnapps in a shaker 

with ice. Shake and strain over fresh 

ice. Fill the glass to the top with 

lemon-lime soda. 

Tequila Sunrise 

Ingredients: 

2 ounces tequila 

4 ounces orange juice 

1/4 ounce grenadine 

Orange slices and cherries to garnish 

Method: 

Combine tequila and orange juice 

in an ice-filled glass. Top with grenadine 

and garnish with an orange 

slice and a cherry. ª


At Jackson Law we have made it our philosophy to create a 

legal environment for clients where legal representation is not about 

lawyers and legal staff controlling and dictating the representative 

needs of clients, but rather about joining forces and standing 

together with clients to strengthen the ability to best represent 

their interests and achieve for them and their families a positive 

result. To memorialize this philosophy so that it will continue to 

be practiced and not be forgotten by those who work for our firm, 

we have registered the trademark… “Together We Stand ® ”. So the 

next time you need legal representation for you or your family, 

visit our firm and together we will roll up our sleeves and take 

care of your needs. 

Kristen Jackson 

Attorney At Law 

Estate Planning 

Wills, Trusts, Probate, Living Wills, Powers of Attorney, Health Care Directives, 

Pre-Need Guardians, Trust Administration, Pet (Animal) Trusts 

Probate 

With or without a Last Will, in order to obtain assets, pay debts and taxes and distribute 

remaining assets to the heirs or beneficiaries, the deceased’s estate requires the 

assistance of an attorney to manage the court supervised administration. 

Corporation & Business Law 

Contracts, Start-ups, Purchase or Sales, Corporations (Inc.), Limited Liability 

Companies (LLC’s), Trademarks, Copyrights, Franchise Agreements 

Real Estate 

Closings, Title Insurance, Sales & Purchases, Leases, Contract Review, 

Contract Preparation 

(407)363-9020 

www.JacksonLawPA.com 

Offices: Orlando 

Credit Cards Accepted


Health is more of a focus to people 

as they seek to return to a normal 

pace of life. One option for maintaining 

optimal health has been a 

resource to Central Floridians for the 

past 86 years. 

Chamberlin’s Natural Foods, 

which opened its first location in 

downtown Orlando in 1935, continues 

to offer customers quality 

service, a knowledgeable staff and 

various products for all health needs. 

With its seventh location to 

open this summer in Lake Mary, 

Chamberlin’s Natural Foods hopes 

to continue being the No. 1 health 

source for all of Central Florida. 

“We have kind of been a staple in 

the area, and I think for that reason, 

we have a lot of customers that really 

trust us because we’re not a flyby-night 

deal; we’ve been there all 

along,” said Mary Ann O’Dell, 

nutritional director of Healthy 

Edge Retail Group, that owns 

Chamberlin’s and sister companies 

Earth Origins Market and Akin’s 

Natural Foods. “We really do our 

best in taking care of the customer.” 

Congrats 

to our 

grads. 

Supply and 

Knowledge Spanning the Years 

When Chamberlin’s first emerged 

in Orlando in 1935, it was a 

When your needs change, we have options. 

Michael Wytiaz, CFP ® 

Branch Leader 

4848 S. Apopka Vineland Rd, Suite 204 

Orlando, FL 32819 

407-909-0485 

© 2021 Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (“Schwab”) Member SIPC. 

All rights reserved. (0421-1WG9) SCH3468-18 (4/21) 

Our Orlando office has options 

and guidance that grow with you. 

BUSINESS 

Here in Florida, Michael is just one of many Schwab Branch 

Leaders ready to offer guidance and a wide range of 

investment options for your changing needs. Michael works 

to put you first. Even if you’re not sure what comes next. 

Get started at schwab.com/windermere 

PROFILE 

Chamberlin’s Natural Foods 

Service With a Healthy Touch 

small health food store that had a 

juice bar and sold health items in 

bulk. Now, it is one of the leading 

U.S. retailers for vitamins and supplements, 

organic groceries and 

even several vegan products, with 

some locations having smoothie 

bars and offering salads, soups, 

sandwiches and bakery items. 

There are now six locations in 

Central Florida: two in Lakeland 

and one in Altamonte Springs, 

Dr. Phillips, Baldwin Park and 

Kissimmee. The seventh location 

will be taking over the previous 

Earth Origins Market location in 

Lake Mary and is set to open this 

summer. 

Chamberlin’s has continued to 

be the sought-after health store for 

Central Florida because of its dedication 

to having the latest health 

products in stores and well-versed 

employees — nicknamed “goodness 

gurus” — to answer any questions 

customers may have. 

“We have tens of thousands of 

products in store, and we carry a 

lot of vitamins and herbs,” O’Dell 

said. “Along with that, we have 

staff that undergo mandatory educational 

programs. Training the 

staff on the products and what they 

do [and] providing good customer 

service is something we are focused 

on.” 

This wasn’t more evident than 

during the COVID-19 pandemic, 

during which customers were 

coming in asking about products 

for boosting their immune 

The staff of 

Chamberlin's 

Natural Foods in 

The Marketplace 

at Dr. Phillips is 

trained to provide 

knowledgeable 

service to their 

customers. 

systems and handling stress. O’Dell 

even took part in some Facebook 

Live sessions talking about stress, 

especially since their in-store 

seminars haven’t started back 

up yet. 

“Honestly, we feel we developed 

more through the pandemic because 

we were able to help some 

people who had not been in [the 

store] in a while, helping people to 

recognize us as a source of nutritional 

information and quality customer 

service and great products.” 

The hope is that with the restart 

of in-store seminars, participating 

in events like the Central Florida 

Earth Day and Veg Fest, the new 

Lake Mary location, and a new 

loyalty program, more people will 

learn of the local treasure that is 

Chamberlin’s. 

“As a company, we have changed 

over the years in broadening our 

product assortment, but we have 

always held to core standards such 

as certain ingredients we don’t 

allow and quality customer service 

that we maintain all along,” 

O’Dell said. 

For more information about Chamberlin’s Natural Food, 

visit chamberlins.com, facebook.com/chamberlinsfl or 

instagram.com/chamberlinsfl. ª


NEWS &BUSINESS BRIEFS 

compiled by Lauren Salinero 

n Oakland receives award 

of distinction 

Oakland was honored by the 

Florida Public Relations Association 

(FPRA) for excellence in public relations 

for the town’s Santa’s Lane 

Drive Through Christmas. The community 

holiday event was recognized 

with an award of distinction 

in the category of “Public Relations 

Programs: Special Event” during the 

Mid-Florida Image Awards. 

Among the town staff who 

planned and promoted the drive-thru 

were event coordinator/permit tech 

Valerie Gibbons, administrative 

services and communications director 

and FPRA Lake County chapter 

President Elisha Pappacoda, and 

public arts and heritage coordinator 

and FPRA Orlando chapter Image 

Awards Chair Ashlynn Webb. 

Oakland’s annual holiday event 

was reimagined in 2020 due to 

COVID-19. With a new drive-thru 

format, the event offered residents 

the same spirit of joy without the risk 

associated with a physical gathering. 

Because of an outpouring of 

community support, it attracted more 

than 50% more children than the 

previous year. 

Conducted annually, the Image 

Awards provides public relations 

practitioners a platform to be recognized 

in their home markets for outstanding 

public relations tools and 

programs. To qualify, an entry must 

incorporate sound public relations 

research and planning and meet the 

highest standard of production, execution 

and evaluation of results and 

budget. 

n Habitat for Humanity’s 

newest community is a go 

West Orange Habitat for 

Humanity’s newest affordable 

housing community, Criswell 

Court, has been in the planning 

stages since early last year. With 

the land donation approval from the 

city of Winter Garden finalized 

last month, construction on Criswell 

Court can begin soon. West Orange 

Habitat has partnered with Mike 

Morrissey, an architect in the west 

Orange community, to design homes 

in keeping with the city’s vision to 

preserve the culture and history of 

the area. 

Criswell Court is named for Bill 

Criswell, a founding member and 

longtime supporter of West Orange 

Habitat. It is the result of a partnership 

between West Orange Habitat, 

the city of Winter Garden, Polis 

Institute, 321 Works and the residents 

of east Winter Garden. The community 

will have two 900-square-foot 

cottage homes with two bedrooms 

and one bathroom, as well as two 

garden homes with three or four 

bedrooms and two bathrooms. 

n Small Town Charm on 

display this month 

The Healthy West Orange 

Arts and Heritage Center at 

The Town of Oakland is featuring 

more than 10 eye-catching oil 

paintings by two former Walt Disney 

Imagineers — Dave Minichiello 

and Joe Warren — in an exhibition 

called Small Town Charm. 

Visitors can see the two men’s vibrant 

works of art Fridays from 11 

a.m.–3 p.m. Plus, guests have an 

CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 

W H E N Y O U B U Y F R O M A 

S M A L L B U S I N E S S , A N 

A C T U A L P E R S O N D O E S 

A 

H A P P Y 

L I T T L E 

D A N C E


CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 

opportunity to participate in an art 

scavenger hunt and listen to live music 

by Mud Rooster, a HAPCO live 

band, on May 28. 

For more information, visit www. 

oaklandfl.gov/artsandheritage. 

n Lighthouse Central Florida 

employee vaccination event 

Employees of Lighthouse Central 

Florida receive COVID-19 vaccinations 

with the help of Orlando Health. 

Lighthouse Central Florida recently 

held a COVID-19 vaccination 

event in partnership with Orlando 

Health. During the event, more than 

70 Lighthouse employees, clients 

and their families received vaccinations. 

Since 1976, Lighthouse Central 

Florida has provided education, independent 

life skills and job training 

and placement to more than 100,000 

people with sight impairment and 

their families. The organization is the 

only nationally accredited nonprofit 

offering a comprehensive range of 

vision-specific rehabilitation services 

in Orange, Osceola and Seminole 

counties. Lighthouse ensures that individuals 

of all backgrounds have the 

tools they need to lead productive, independent 

lives while pursuing their 

dreams and goals without limitations. 

awareness about water safety rules 

and programs in order to prevent 

drownings. Drowning is the leading 

cause of death among Florida 

children ages 1 to 4, and drowning 

fatalities are up 54% this year. 

In 2020, annual drownings were up 

13% during a year when most parents 

were working from home while 

also trying to supervise and school 

their children. 

“Drowning is preventable through 

access to resources and education 

that should be available to all children 

regardless of income and socioeconomic 

background,” said Joy 

McGinty, who founded The Gift 

of Swimming in 2003 with the 

goal of providing swimming scholarships 

to underprivileged children 

and children with special needs. 

During Water Safety Month, 

McGinty recommends following the 

basic water safety tips outlined by 

Gov. DeSantis as well as signing up 

children for swim lessons and making 

sure they are never left unsupervised 

when around water. 

n New ORRA headquarters 

Officials of the Orlando 

Regional Real tor Association 

(ORRA) announced the groundbreaking 

of the organization’s future 

headquarters, located conveniently 

off I-4 near Lee Road. The property 

will allow ORRA to expand its educational 

offerings and meeting spaces, 

launching the 19,000-member trade 

association into the next century of 

the real estate profession. 

The complex contains nearly 

100,000 square feet of office space, 

consisting of three buildings situated 

on 7.2 acres. The site was selected 

in late 2019 and purchased in early 

2021. At the time of the selection, 

the property was 92% vacant, allowing 

ORRA to further develop the 

area, creating a landmark property 

along I-4. The new headquarters will 

give ORRA much-needed additional 

space, as ORRA is now the eighthlargest 

real estate trade association 

in the country, as well as 170 parking 

spots. The old building was too 

cramped and too costly to upgrade 

to accommodate the organization's 

growing membership. The meeting 

and event space in the new headquarters 

will also allow both members 

and the general public to rent it 

out, generating independent revenue 

for ORRA. 

BUSINESS BRIEFS 

Matthew’s Hope is currently accepting 

reservations for its Harvest 

of Hope Garden Party, which 

will be held Nov. 13 from 5:45-9:15 

p.m. at The Pines at Windermere. 

Scott Maxwell of the Orlando 

Sentinel will serve as master of 

ceremonies, and festivities include 

light hors d’oeuvres, live entertainment, 

a silent auction, raffles and 

more. Tables of 10 are available for 

$600, and as in years past, each 

table may create its own theme to 

compete for trophies. Sponsorships 

are available. For more information, 

call 407-905-9500 or visit 

www.matthewshopeministries.org/ 

garden-party. 

Orange County Library 

System is one of 23 organizations 

in Florida to collectively receive 

$653,000 in grants from the Duke 

Energy Foundation. The library was 

awarded $5,000 for its Summer 

Reading Program outreach efforts to 

overcome COVID-19. OCLS is one 

of nine Central Florida STEM programs 

to receive this grant, which 

will be used for programming during 

its Summer Reading Program 

this year. For more information, visit 

duke-energy.com/foundation. 

n May is Water Safety Month 

in Florida 

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a 

proclamation declaring May Water 

Safety Month in Florida to raise 

Members of the Orlando Regional Realtor Association break ground on the organization's future headquarters.


photo courtesy of WOCC 

West Orange 

Chamber of 

Commerce 

ambassadors 

celebrate the opening 

of a Tijuana Flats in 

Ocoee. 

West Orange Chamber of 

Commerce representatives held 

a ribbon-cutting ceremony for 

the opening of a Tijuana Flats 

in Ocoee. WOCC builds partnerships, 

strong businesses and 

commitment to the community by 

serving as the leading business 

advocate in Central Florida, facilitating 

opportunity to nearly 

1,000 member businesses. For 

more information about WOCC, 

call 407-656-1304 or visit 

wochamber.com. ª 

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Myopia Management 

These treatments are intended to 

slow the progression of myopia 

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If your child has myopia, most likely 

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n Bay Hill 

Bay Hill resident and local marital 

and family law attorney Richard 

D. West of West Family Law Group 

attended the American Academy 

of Matrimonial Lawyers’ midyear 

meeting. During the meeting, 

Richard gave a presentation titled 

“The Successfully Run Remote Law 

Practice.” 

n Hidden Springs/Estates 

Hidden Springs/Estates resident 

April Hammersand was recognized 

by Ronald McDonald House 

Charities of Central Florida officials 

for her volunteer work. April retired 

from Dr. Phillips Elementary 

School, where she taught for 15 

years, and she and her husband, 

Steve, have lived in Hidden Springs 

since 1985. The couple has two 

daughters and five grandchildren. 

In celebration of National Volunteer 

Month last month, Ronald McDonald 

House Charities of Central Florida 

recognized many of the dedicated 

volunteers it’s had throughout the 

past 25 years. 

Ronald McDonald House Charities of 

Central Florida officials recognize April 

Hammersand of Hidden Springs/Estates 

as an amazing volunteer. 

IN YOURNEIGHBORHOOD 

Brandan Molthan was selected 

as Hidden Springs/Estates’ 

Spring 2021 Yard of the Quarter 

winner. Each quarter, residents of 

the Hidden Springs/Estates subdivision 

in Dr. Phillips can nominate 

a fellow neighbor whose property 

stands out as being attractive and 

well-maintained. A committee of volunteers 

reviews the nominations and 

selects a winner. Brandan grew up 

in the nearby Orange Tree neighborhood 

and attended Dr. Phillips 

Elementary, Southwest Middle 

and Dr. Phillips High schools. 

He did a lot of work on his home, 

including clearing the landscape, 

replacing the entire front lawn, and 

planting Podocarpus along the front 

and sides of his home. He changed 

the walkway from a curved cement 

walkway to square pads separated 

by decorative rocks that lead 

to the front of the home. He also 

painted the house black, which 

was inspired by some homes he 

had seen in Dallas. The Yard of the 

Quarter program is sponsored by 


John Scolaro of Coldwell Banker 

Realty, who awarded Brandan a gift 

certificate to Ace Hardware. 

n Ocoee 

compiled by Lauren Salinero 

Hidden Springs/Estates residents congratulate neighbor Brandan Molthan (left) for 

his yardwork by voting him the 2021 Yard of the Quarter winner. He is joined by program 

sponsor John Scolaro. 

Ocoee resident Angel de la 

Portilla was appointed to Valencia 

College’s district board of trustees 

by Gov. Ron DeSantis. He 

began the four-year term at the end 

of January. Angel, who is the president 

of Central Florida Strategies, 

previously ser ved as an Ocoee commissioner 

for a short time. He is the 

ninth member of the board. 

After the retirement of longtime 

Police Chief Charlie Brown, Ocoee 

City Manager Robert Frank appointed 

Saima Plasencia to the 

position of chief. Three internal candidates 

applied for the job, and 

Robert reached out to the Florida 

Police Chiefs Association to assess 

each candidate’s executive police 

experience. A panel composed 

of six active Florida police chiefs 

and one retired chief forwarded a 

unanimous recommendation to the 

city manager for Chief Plasencia, 

and she was affirmed by the city 

manager. Chief Plasencia served as 

acting police chief from February 

until she assumed the role of police 

chief immediately upon appointment 

last month. Chief Plasencia has 

more than 30 years of law enforcement 

experience. She joined the 

Ocoee Police Department five years 

ago and previously worked for the 

Miami-Dade Police Department. 

n Windermere 

Windermere resident Hanako 

Goetz was selected as a DePauw 

University Rector Scholar. In 1919, 

Edward and Lucy Rector established 

the scholarship to ensure that outstanding 

students have access to a 

transformative DePauw education. 

Among hundreds of excellent candidates, 

Hanako was chosen for 

the award based on an outstanding 

record of accomplishment in high 

school, an essay and an interview. 

n Winter Garden 

Saima 

Plasencia is 

named Ocoee 

police chief. 

West Orange Chamber of 

Commerce representatives held a 

ribbon-cutting ceremony for Rita’s 

of Winter Garden. WOCC builds 

partnerships, strong businesses and 

commitment to the community by 

serving as the leading business advocate 

in Central Florida, facilitating 

opportunity to nearly 1,000 member 

businesses. For more information 

about WOCC, call 407-656-1304 

or visit wochamber.com. 

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

14 x May 20 — June 2, 2021 x www.SouthwestOrlandoBulletin.com



West Orange Chamber of Commerce ambassadors celebrate the opening of Rita’s of Winter Garden. 

photo courtesy of WOCC 

Mark Kaley released his debut 

novel, From Pennies to Millions. Set 

in the early 2000s, the book tells the 

story of how a former Florida theme 

park worker, former pool cleaner 

and former New York attorney rose 

to dominance on the coattails of a 

tracking device, a piece of plastic rebar, 

and a biometric thumb drive in 

a lesser-known industry, where honest 

businessmen were outnumbered 

by swindlers, cheats and charlatans, 

looking to game a system where the 

rules were often more gray than black 

and white, to become one of the preeminent 

consulting firms for small publicly 

traded companies. After working 

as a TV producer for Cablevision on 

Long Island, Mark obtained a law degree 

and found a calling in helping 

small businesses grow and succeed. 

Attracted to the Central Florida weather 

and tourist experiences, Mark and 

his family relocated to the Sunshine 

OFFERING TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS 

State in 2004. He always had a passion 

for storytelling and used the lockdowns 

of 2020 to pursue that dream 

by penning this memoir of experience. 

He and his wife share their home in 

Winter Garden with three extraordinary 

children and two adorable dogs. 

n Et Al 

Heart of Florida United Way officials 

announced members of its 

new Women United Leadership and 

Steering Committee. Lisa Curran of 

Dr. Phillips was named vice chair. 

Among the 22 members of the steering 

committee were Southwest Orlando 

resident Danielle Hollander, Dr. 

Phillips resident Sherry Magee, 

and Windermere resident Tracey 

Powell. Women United is an action-oriented, 

impact-driven group 

of Central Florida leaders dedicated 

to empowering the women and 

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

children of ALICE 

— Asset Limited, 

Income Constrained, 

Employed — families, 

who are one emergency 

away from financial 

disaster. 

Ken Peach of the Rotary Club of Dr. Phillips presents 

a Heroes in Our Community Award to Flaviane Carvalho 

(center), a restaurant manager who rescued a boy from severe 

child abuse. They are joined by club President Mary Ellen 

Kerber, who originated the award. 

Although we try to ensure that all information presented above is the 

most current, correct and dependable available, we do rely on others 

for the source of our news. Therefore, the Southwest Orlando Bulletin 

and Cornerstone Publishing & Multi-Media LLC cannot be held responsible 

for the validity of the information presented here, nor does mentioning it 

constitute an endorsement. In Your Neighborhood news is welcome and 

may be mailed to P.O. Box 851, Windermere, FL 34786; or emailed to 

Lauren@kearneypublishing.com. ª 

401 Main Street, Suite A, Windermere, FL 

Windermere Center for 

DENTISTRY 

Emilia Godoy-Rapport, D.M.D. 

Always Friendly & Gentle 

Cosmetic and family dentistry 

Brooke Parker, LMHC 

Rachael Pittala 

A.R.P.N-BC 

se habla español 

www.windermeresmiles.com 

(407) 909-1097


Ron the Realtor 

The Harder You Work, the Luckier You Get! 

©Jason Cannon/Cannonfirephoto.com 

When it comes to real estate in 

Southwest Orlando, there’s one name 

every buyer and seller needs to know 

— Ron Ziolkowski, better known 

as Ron the Realtor. RTR has been 

dominating the Southwest Orlando 

real estate market for decades and is 

celebrating 20 years with Re/Max 

Properties this month. He is considered 

one of the foremost real estate 

experts in the area. His negotiating 

skills are second to none, his knowledge 

of the area is unparalleled, and 

he provides five-star customer service 

to every one of his clients. They benefit 

from RTR’s extensive experience, 

knowledge, relationships, connections, 

work ethic and persistence, 

which is crucial in today’s market. 

“The current market is a bareknuckle 

fistfight,” RTR said. “You need 

the strongest person in your corner 

fighting for you. On the buyer’s side, 

there’s no one who gets more offers 

accepted in multiple-offer situations 

than myself. I am a difference-maker. 

In this unprecedented seller’s market, 

there’s never been more need of a 

difference-maker. The best part of 

having me represent you is it costs 

your family nothing. The seller pays 

the commission.” 

When compared with other 

Realtors, the difference is made 

clear when looking at the multitude 

of awards and accolades RTR has 

accumulated. He is the No. 1 Re/ 

Max Realtor in the state of Florida for 

the fourth consecutive year. Ron sells 

more real estate in Winter Garden 

than anyone else on the planet, has 

been voted a Southwest Orlando 

Bulletin Best of Southwest Realtor for 

six years; named to Orlando magazine’s 

Hot 100 in Real Estate 14 

times; awarded the coveted Five Star 

Professional Award seven years in a 

row; and earned a Circle of Legends 

Award in 2020, which is typically 

earned by real estate teams, not 

individuals. 

Making Every Client 

Feel Like His Only Client 

RTR’s unrivaled success is due to 

his incredible work ethic. His mantra 

is, “The harder you work, the luckier 

you get.” With no staff, team or assistants, 

RTR handles the entirety of 

every deal, ensuring your transaction 

is smooth and drama-free. He 

says, “There is no such thing as afterhours,” 

and is always available for 

his clients. 

“I do everything,” he said. “Start 

to finish, I am there every step for my 

clients. It allows me to make sure that 

everything’s always on track.” 

RTR does all this while making every 

client feel as though they are his only 

one, no matter the value of the deal. 

“Every single person, I try to make 

them feel like they’re the only client 

I have,” RTR said. “I pride myself 

on being the Realtor fighting for the 

middle class. I work for the average 

American family, but I give them the 

same marketing budget and exposure 

that a luxury Realtor would reserve 

only for a $2 million listing.” 

This attention to detail and focus 

on customer service are cornerstones 

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE 

of RTR’s approach to working with 

clients. 

“My goal is to have every single 

person I work with be a client for 

life,” he said. “I call it the RTR Army, 

and I grow it by one every time I 

meet somebody.” 

The Most Educated 

Clients on the Market 

RTR provides access to an invaluable 

tool in the blog section of 

his website, www.rontherealtor.com. 

Every quarter, he calculates and 

posts in-depth analyses of the Winter 

Garden and Windermere markets 

and has been doing so for more than 

20 years with incredible accuracy 

and forecasting. 

“It’s all there for anyone to see, any 

time, on my website,” he said. “You 

can access it without registration or 

even signing up your email address 

and know more than anyone else out 

there — information you can’t find 

anywhere. Who does this? I spend 

hours once a quarter to develop 

those reports, and I provide them 

for free to anyone who wants to see 

them. Knowledge is power.” 

For daily updates on the pulse of 

real estate in Southwest Orlando, 

anyone can also follow RTR on 

“Fakebook” and Instagram. 

The American Dream 

RTR has a deep love for this country 

and sees himself as the embodiment 

of the American dream. Having 

grown up in a single-parent household 

in Buffalo, New York, he worked 

hard for his success through five-star 

customer service and an unwavering 

work ethic from a very early age. 

His passion for his work and drive to 

succeed are evident, as he claims he 

doesn’t even know how to relax and 

take a vacation. 

“I go out of my way to help veterans 

and single parents,” he said. “I 

give them the extra effort every single 

time. I will never turn away a veteran. 

I will fight for them like they fought for 

my country. I love this country and 

believe I am the embodiment of the 

American dream.” 

RTR’s love for his work is rivaled 

only by his love for his family. He 

credits his wife of 22 years, Kathy, 

with how he is able to maintain his 

demanding work schedule and the 

raising of their three children, Evan, 

Owen and Kaitlyn. 

“The saying, ‘Behind every good 

man is a better woman,’ is 100% true 

in my case,” RTR said. “Kathy is the 

backbone of our family and picks up 

a lot of slack from me, always fighting 

for the RTR Army. We have three 

amazing young adults entering the 

world as leaders and contributors 

thanks to her endless care, support 

and love.” 

RTR and Kathy raised their family in 

Southwest Orlando. They live, work 

and play here. Being dedicated to 

this area for decades has allowed 

RTR to gain the knowledge and experience 

to be that difference-maker 

with every person in a real estate 

transaction. He strives to avoid the 

typical roller-coaster ride many people 

experience when buying or selling 

a home. His clients don’t feel the 

radical peaks and valleys, because 

they know everything is being taken 

care of at the highest level by a 

Realtor with decades of experience. 

“If you’re thinking of selling your 

house, you need to do your family a 

favor and sit down with me to discuss 

what I bring to the table for your family,” 

RTR said. “With well over $600 

million in closed sales and thousands 

of clients for life, what do you have to 

lose? 407-592-SOLD.” 

Re/Max Prime Properties is located in Suite 148 

at 13848 Tilden Road in Winter Garden. For 

more information, call 407-592-7653 or visit 

www.rontherealtor.com. ª

SOUTHWEST ORLANDO 

Home & Real Estate 

Volume 2, Issue 3 — May 2021 

Get Your Patio Ready 

for Summer Living! 

Is Your Home 

at Risk for an 

Electrical Fire? 

A Product of the 

Southwest Orlando Bulletin

2 | May 2021 | Southwest Orlando Home & Real Estate 

It’s time to extend your home’s living 

spaces to the outdoors. To get 

your patio prepped for a summer of 

relaxation and fun, consider the following 

décor ideas and inspiration: 

The Entryway 

Your patio will be more enticing if 

you have beautiful sliding glass patio 

doors leading to it. If you do go 

in for this upgrade, it’s important to 

know that patio doors can be customized 

in a number of ways that affect 

their look and function. To help you 

make sense of your options, shop 

with manufacturers that offer visualizer 

tools, such as the one available 

at ProVia, provia.com/app. This can 

help you see what colors and hardware 

look best in your home and 

find the combination you like best. 

Their Aeris wood and vinyl sliding 

doors, for example, offer many 

customization opportunities, including 

wood-stain finishes; interior and 

exterior colors; options for internal 

grids and internal blinds; and a wide 

array of decorative glass, privacy 

glass and tinted glass options. 

Beyond beauty, be 

sure to prioritize high 

performance, particularly 

when it comes 

to energy efficiency; 

storm protection and, 

of course, smooth, easy 

and quiet operation. 

After all, it’s hard to feel 

relaxed if simply getting 

outdoors is a struggle. 

Get Your Patio 

Ready for Summer Living! 

Exterior Decorating 

Boost comfort and 

ambiance by applying 

the same attention to detail when 

decorating your patio as you would 

indoors. Beyond furniture that’s comfortable 

enough to lounge on all day 

or evening, incorporate throws, pillows 

and even rugs. Add splashes 

of color and vibrancy by hanging 

outdoor wall art or, if you’re feeling 

extra creative, painting a mural. 

This summer, enjoy your home life to the fullest by 

improving your patio space. 

Paper lanterns hung above your 

patio dining area can bring a touch 

of romance to meals enjoyed outdoors. 

And, get inspired by the nature 

around you by ensuring your 

patio features greenery. Potted and 

hanging plants or even ivy, jasmine 

or roses grown against a wall are all 

good choices. 

Beauty Inspired by Nature 

These days, manufactured stone is 

not just for the side of your home. 

The possibilities for using it in and 

around the patio are endless. Add 

drama to a boundary wall between 

the patio and yard; beautify your outdoor 

kitchen’s grill unit, pizza oven, 

table or island; and enhance seating 

around the fire pit or fireplace and 

the bases of pergolas or columns. 

Just be sure to select products that 

look like authentic stone even upon 

careful inspection and are designed 

to withstand the elements. For example, 

the choices available from ProVia 

are artfully crafted to produce a realistic, 

dramatic effect, mimicking stones 

from unique geographic regions in a 

range of cuts. Unlike other options 

on the market, their colors permeate 

throughout the entire stone, giving 

every manufactured stone a realistic 

look with hues that last for years. To 

learn more, visit provia.com/stone. 

With a few stylish upgrades, you 

can get your patio in tip-top shape 

for summer. 

(StatePoint) ª

Spring is here; the time of year 

when you take the initiative of getting 

those home improvement projects 

completed that maybe you 

have been putting off since, well, 

forever. 

There’s one project you can stop 

putting off any longer, and it involves 

one of the most important 

rooms of the house withthe most 

potential — the garage. That’s 

right. Your garage makes up 

roughly 20% of your home’s total 

square footage, but it is almost always 

forgotten, even though it can 

serve as the main entryway for 

family members and friends entering 

your home. How many times 

have you welcomed people into 

your house, only to apologize and 

tell your guests to close their eyes 

as they make their way through 

your garage? The cold and unwelcoming 

concrete floor, stained, 

cracked and peeling, is not the 

impression you want your home to 

make on your guests. That’s why 

Rich Whiddon opened Granite 

Garage Floors — Orlando, 

part of a nationwide franchise that 

not only upgrades your garage 

floor to look and last like granite 

but does it all for you, so you can 

focus on those other spring projects 

at hand, like getting to the pool. 

Just think about it, there isn’t a 

floor in your home that takes the 

constant abuse that the garage floor 

does. Thousands of pounds with hot 

tires rolling in and out of the garage 

multiple times each day, which either 

can stain concrete or peel the 

paint right off the concrete floor. 

Most people are aware of quick-fix 

Does Your Garage 

Floor Need a Makeover? 

Custom garage floors by Granite Garage Floors — Orlando are guaranteed for a 

lifetime. 

or do-it-yourself concrete stains 

or water-based epoxy kits sold at 

home improvement or paint stores. 

However, these products generally 

cannot hold up against the abuse 

that the garage floor takes. That’s 

why Granite Garage Floors uses an 

industrial-strength epoxy that isn’t 

available at stores.It is the only 

epoxy that can withstandthe pressures 

a garage floor has to handle. 

However, the secret lies in Granite 

Garage Floors’ installation process 

that allows Whiddon’s team to install 

a product that is guaranteed to 

last for life. 

Granite Garage Floors’ staff 

doesn’t just install the epoxy and 

by Rich Whiddon, Owner • Granite Garage Floors — Orlando 

407-494-9403 • www.granitegaragefloors.com/location/orlando 

Southwest Orlando Home & Real Estate | May 2021 | 3 

leave. They meticulously prepare 

the concrete floor by diamond 

grinding it to remove previous 

coatings and stains, allowing the 

floor to become porous. This allows 

maximum adhesion of the epoxy 

to the concrete, protecting it from 

hot-tire pickup and peeling. Then, 

Granite Garage Floors repairs 

any cracks and fills any grooves 

on the garage floor. The epoxy is 

squeegeed onto the floor to ensure 

it is evenly distributed across the 

garage. Finally, it is covered with 

decorative flakes, giving it the look 

of granite or quartz, an aesthetic 

upgrade from stained gray paint. 

Your floor will make your garage 

feel as homey as the interior of your 

home, while the floor can hold up 

against even the harshest abuses. 

The team at Granite Garage Floors 

is so confident in its process that 

your beautiful garage floor is guaranteed 

for life. 

So remember, as you get started 

on those spring projects, the garage 

is the most-traveled place in 

your home but has the most potential 

for being upgraded. Don’t wait 

any longer. Your “new” garage 

could be just a few days away! ª 

ESPE ALMARZA ANDERSON, 

MA, SFR 

7626 Sand Lake Rd., Orlando, FL 32819 

407-421-6679 

espe.almarza@floridamoves.com 

Serving all of your real estate needs in: 

Orlando - Dr. Phillips - Windermere 

For For future Events and and Specials visit visit our our 

website and and follow us us on on Social media. 

2204 2204 Hempel Avenue, Gotha FL FL 34734 

Mon-Fri 7am 7am - 4pm - 4pm • Sat • Sat 8am 8am - 12pm - 12pm


Springtime is peak homebuying 

and homebuilding season. And, it’s 

critical to protect one of the largest 

investments you’ll make in a lifetime 

— as well as your loved ones. 

May, which is National Electrical 

Safety Month, is a good time to 

brush up on potential electrical 

hazards and learn more about arcfault 

circuit interrupter (AFCI) circuit 

breaker technology, an important 

life- and fire-safety device for any 

new or newly renovated home, 

and a National Electrical Code 

requirement. 

“Ensuring your home is outfitted 

with lifesaving technology like arcfault 

circuit interrupters is critical,” 

said Ashley Bryant, National 

Electrical Manufacturers Association 

(NEMA) Low Voltage Distribution 

Equipment AFCI Task Force cochair. 

“AFCIs are smart devices 

proven to detect dangerous arcing 

in damaged wiring behind walls, as 

well as in damaged electrical cords 

under furniture or connected to unsafe 

appliances, preventing deadly 

electrical fires from occurring.” 

Is Your Home 

at Risk for an Electrical Fire? 

©helt2/iStock via Getty Images Plus 

Take safety precautions to protect your home from electrical fires. 

According to officials of the 

National Association of Certified 

Home Inspectors (NACHI), some of 

the top things to look for in a home 

are insufficient electrical service; 

inadequate over-current protection 

and dangerous, damaged or noncompliant 

wiring and wiring connections. 

To help you ensure the 

home you’re buying or building 

is protected from future electrical 

problems, consider these additional 

tips: 

• Hire a certified and licensed 

home inspector. A professional 

home inspector can tell you a lot 

about the safety of a home’s electrical 

system and what may need 

to be repaired and updated. To 

ensure you’re hiring someone qualified, 

visit the NACHI website at 

nachi.org/certified-inspectors. 

• Meet National Electrical Code 

requirements. Make sure your 

home’s electrical system meets 

National Electrical Code requirements, 

including AFCI circuit breaker 

installation, which offers key 

areas of the home protection from 

Any complete 

install when you 

mention Southwest 

Orlando Bulletin 

(407) 494-9403

electrical fires. While there’s a common 

misconception that this technology 

is unaffordable and hard 

to find, the average cost to protect 

a new 2,000-square-foot, fourbedroom 

home is only $300, and 

AFCI circuit breakers are available 

at electrical supply houses, home 

improvement stores and online, according 

to NEMA. 

Rooms where water is present, 

like kitchens, bathrooms, laundry 

rooms and outdoor areas, should 

be equipped with dual-function 

AFCI/GFCI circuit breakers. GFCI 

stands for ground-fault circuit interrupters 

and work with AFCI technology 

to help prevent possible shock 

and electrocution. If the home 

doesn’t have this protection, be prepared 

to ask the owner or builder 

to make updates in accordance 

with your state’s electrical and 

building codes, or be ready to hire 

a licensed electrical professional 

to install these life- and propertysaving 

devices once you move in. 

A great online resource for more 

information is www.afcisafety.org. 

• Practice safety at home. A few 

simple steps can be taken around 

the house that will help protect your 

home from electrical fires and keep 

your family safe. Check to see that 

lightbulbs are the correct wattages 

and tightly in their sockets. Make 

sure no furniture is placed on appliance 

cords or up against pluggedin 

receptacles. Protect valuable 

electronics by installing surge-protective 

devices and prevent circuitbreaker 

tripping by not overloading 

any circuit. 

• Ask the right questions. Ask 

the seller if they made any updates 

to the home’s electrical 

system. Be sure to find out if this 

was a DIY project or if a licensed 

electrician did the work under a 

permit. 

“During the often overwhelming 

process of buying or building 

a home, understanding a bit about 

electrical safety can help ensure 

you’re making a sound investment 

and offer you greater peace of 

mind,” Bryant said. 

(StatePoint) ª 


EXTERIOR HOME CLEANING 

AND SPECIALTY 

COATING SERVICES 

PRESSURE WASHING 

DECORATIVE SCORED CONCRETE 

PAVER SEALING 

POOL DECK COATING 

321-947-2541 

Imperial Outdoor Living, LLC 

Facebook.com/imperialoutdoorliving 

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


Spring means it’s time to spruce up 

your home and garden with a little 

TLC inside and out. If you’re unsure 

where to begin, consider these tips: 

• Make function a priority. While 

aesthetic changes may boost value 

and please the eye, be sure to consider 

upgrades that make living easier, 

like organization units that give 

you more space or upgrades that 

create additional living space. 

• Keep budget in mind. Make a list 

of the projects you’d like to complete 

and estimate how much each will 

cost. Use the list to determine what 

you can afford to complete now. 

• Do your research. If you’ll be 

making a significant purchase, such 

as a new vacuum or grill, be sure to 

explore your options, read reviews 

and shop around for the best prices 

for greater confidence in what you 

choose. 

• Set yourself up for a more enjoyable 

spring with more home and 

garden tips at elivingtoday.com. 

Hands-Free Spring Cleaning 

For busy households, an all-inone 

vacuum and mop robot like 

the Deebot N8+ is a perfect daily 

companion to help automate spring 

cleaning. It features high suction 

power (but low noise), TrueMapping 

technology to create an efficient 

cleaning path, and the OZMO 

Mopping System to remove 99.26% 

of bacteria with dual vacuuming 

and mopping. Controllable with a 

smartphone app, it includes an Auto 

Empty Station for months of handsand 

maintenance-free cleaning. 

Learn more at ecovacs.com/us. 

Kari Fleck Broker / CEO 

 

 

c 

photo courtesy of Getty Images 

Spring into action, and prepare your home and garden for summer. 

Enhance 

the Space Under Your Deck 

Optimize the space beneath an 

elevated deck by adding a drainage 

system such as Trex RainEscape. 

Designed to capture and divert 

water, this system protects a deck’s 

substructure from moisture damage 

while creating dry space usable for 

storage or an additional living area. 

Homeowners can safely add gas 

lines and wiring to accommodate 

grills, appliances, ceiling fans, lights 

Paul Fedynich 

 

 

Spruce Up for Spring! 

and entertainment components to 

create an outdoor oasis. For more information, 

visit trexrainescape.com. 

Perfect Your Pantry 

Cleaning out your pantry is an important 

step during spring cleaning, 

as it allows you to discard expired 

items and rethink the space. Start 

by reorganizing and simplifying 

the area with ClosetMaid ventilated 

shelving like a pantry organizer. Built 

with the ShelfTrack system for a fully 

adjustable space along with close 

mesh to help prevent items from tipping 

over, it includes four 4-foot-by- 

16-inch shelves, a hang track and 

all necessary hardware. Find more 

information at closetmaid.com. 

Get Ready to Grill 

A grill’s lifespan depends on many 

factors, including where and how it 

is stored and your climate. When it’s 

time to upgrade, you’ll have some 

decisions to make. The biggest is 

which heating style you prefer — 

gas, electric or charcoal. Other considerations 

include the overall size, 

number of burners and grate quality. 

Also be sure to compare available 

features such as side burners and 

igniters, which are fairly common, 

and upgrades like lighting and fuel 

gauges. 

How to Update 

Home & Garden Goods 

Investing in quality products, properly 

maintaining and storing them all 

have an impact on how long they’ll 

stay in good working condition. As 

you tackle spring cleaning this year, 

take stock of your common home 

and garden equipment to determine 

what may need updating. 

• Lawn mower. If your mower 

needs a repair that exceeds its value, 

it’s time for a replacement. However, 

there may be other signs that an upgrade 

is warranted. Rough operation, 

frequent breakdowns or other 

indications of faulty performance deserve 

a second look. Before you buy 

new, remember to check your warranty 

to determine whether repairs 

might be covered. 

• Vacuum. Many homeowners 

discard their used vacuum when it 

stops picking up dirt and debris as 

efficiently as it did originally. Before 

you move on, be sure to check that 

performance issues aren’t the result 

of clogged hoses or a filter than 

needs cleaning or replacing. A belt 

may also be worn or need adjusting. 

Other signs it may be time to replace 

the vacuum include damaged or 

frayed cords, motor issues like overheating, 

or making strange noises. 

• Grill. A grill may last anywhere 

from five to 15 years, depending on 

the quality of the materials and how 

it is maintained. However, it’s common 

to have to replace parts along 

the way. Signs you may need a new 

grill include a firebox (the main enclosure) 

with cracks, rust or holes 

and burners that distribute heat unevenly. 

Damaged grates can affect 

even grilling if they’re warped; or 

if they’re flaky or rusted, they can 

contaminate food. If you’re not able 

to replace the grates, or any other 

essential part, including hoses and 

connectors for a gas grill, you’ll be 

better off replacing the unit. 

Source: Family Features ª


Hover over this QR Code 

with your smartphone camera 

to get connected with 

buyers now. 

It’s never been easier to sell. 

Visit: ExpressOffersOrlando.com 

Or scan the QR code to the left.


Spring Real Estate, Insurance 

& Financial Directory 

The following key provides information regarding a real estate or insurance 

agent’s specialized training: 

ABR accredited buyer representative 

ARM associate in risk management 

CAM certified apartment manager 

CDPE certified distressed property expert 

CFS certified foreclosure specialist 

ChFC chartered financial consultant 

CIAS certified investor agent specialist 

CLHMS certified luxury home marketing specialist 

CLU chartered life underwriter 

CNE certified negotiation expert 

CPIA certified professional insurance agent 

CRP certified relocation professional 

CRS certified residential specialist 

CSP certified short sale professional 

e-Pro designation by the National Association of Realtors to indicate electronic training 

FMS Florida military specialist 

GRI graduate of the Realtor Institute 

IRES international real estate specialist 

LHMS luxury home marketing specialist 

MBA Master of Business Administration 

MLS Multiple Listing Service 

NASD National Association of Securities Dealers 

ORRA Orlando Regional Realtor Association 

PSA Pricing Strategy Advisor 

REO real estate own 

RCS-D real estate collaboration specialist — divorce 

REPM real estate property management specialist 

SFR short sales and foreclosure resource 

SSRS short sale resolution specialist 

Realtors/Real Estate Agents 

Espe Almarza Anderson, M.A., SFR, Realtor 

Coldwell Banker Realty 

7626 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando • 407-421-6679 

espe.almarza@floridamoves.com 

Espe Almarza Anderson has been a full-time Realtor for 15 years and is ranked 

in the top 5% of Coldwell Banker agents worldwide. She is a skilled negotiator, 

handling every transaction with integrity, professionalism and follow-through. Her 

achievements include Coldwell Banker International President’s Circle, Global 

Luxury Property Specialist, Certified Corporate Relocation Specialist, ORRA Top 

Producer Club, NAHREP Top 100 agents, Orlando Magazine 5 Star Agent, and 

short-sale and foreclosure specialist. She is from a military family and has helped 

many veterans with their real estate transactions. She is bilingual and holds a master’s 

in human resources. Prior to her real estate career, she was in management 

with several Fortune companies. 

Bobby Baldor, P.A. 

eXp Realty Orlando 

407-342-6980 

www.thebaldorgroup.com 

Bobby Baldor is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Florida native with more than 17 

years of combined, award-winning experience in real estate and mortgage lending in 

Central Florida. He is also an eXp Icon Agent and certified mentor. He formerly was 

with Re/Max, where he was recognized as a Hall of Fame member and a consistent 

Platinum Club award winner. Locally, Bobby is a multiyear Gold-Level Award top 

producer within the Orlando Regional Realtors Association. His consistent productivity 

has earned him universal recognition, and he’s been named as a top agent in numerous 

publications annually, including being voted a Best of Southwest Realtor seven 

years in a row! 

Kari Fleck, Founder, CEO, Broker 

The Real Estate Collection 

407-656-7814 

www.therealestatecollection.com 

Kari Fleck is founder/CEO/broker of The Real Estate Collection. With offices 

in historic downtown Winter Garden and Boca Raton, her team has progressively 

captured market share since 2007. Her well-rounded experience and 

passion for real estate as an investor and entrepreneur provide a strong foundation 

of knowledge for her clients and sales team. Specializing in residential, 

commercial and property management for more than 30 years, Kari’s company 

is currently ranked in the top 100 of 2,200 brokerages in Central Florida. 

Team Lentine, GRI, CIPS 

Joe and Denise Lentine at Briggs, Vance & Associates, LLC 

6735 Conroy-Windermere Road, Suite 315, Orlando 

321-662-4216 (Joe) • 407-963-8150 (Denise) 

www.teamlentine.com 

Joe and Denise Lentine of Team Lentine are Realtors with Briggs, Vance 

& Associates LLC, a boutique real estate brokerage in the Dr. Phillips/

Windermere areas. The couple has lived in the Central Florida area for more 

than 20 years and has raised their three daughters there. Joe and Denise 

know that moving is more than just finding a new home — it is finding the 

lifestyle that fits you and your family! 

Darrell Nunnelley, Realtor 

Vintage Realty Group LLC 

501 Main St. 

Orlando • 407-467-8069 

darrellsells.com 

As a Realtor, contractor and property manager in Central Florida with 

more than 30 years of experience helping families buy, sell or renovate their 

primary homes, vacation homes or investment properties, Darrell Nunnelley 

has literally done everything related to real estate. With 1,000s of successful 

transactions through the years, he consistently receives the trust and recommendations 

of past clients. Visit darrellsells.com for the latest local real estate 

listings and see why you should have Darrell help you with all of your real 

estate needs. 

The ViP Home Team 

Valerie Fairchild, Realtor, and Paul Fedynich, Broker, 

at The Real Estate Collection 

407-744-1681 

www.theviphome.team 

Paul Fedynich, broker associate and former broker for the No. 1 and No. 

35 brokerages in the country — Coldwell Banker and Sotheby’s International 

Realty — has partnered with Valerie Fairchild, Realtor, to form The ViP Home 


Team at The Real Estate Collection. Together, they hold 15 designations and 

awards and bring more than 25 years of real estate experience and expertise. 

They love to provide benefits to local heroes. Contact them today for all 

your real estate needs. 

Ronald Ziolkowski, P.A., Realtor 

Re/Max Prime Properties 

13848 Tilden Road, Winter Garden • 407-592-7653 

www.rontherealtor.com 

Ronald Ziolkowski, P.A., better known as “Ron the Realtor,” has been a 

fixture in Southwest Orlando real estate since 1998. He has been the No. 

1 Re/Max Realtor in the state of Florida for four consecutive years and is 

celebrating his 20th year with Re/Max. With closed sales more than $600 

million and well over 2,000 homes closed to date, Ron has earned almost 

every award possible, including being voted a Best of Southwest Realtor in 

Southwest Orlando Bulletin’s Best of Southwest for the past six years and 

Orlando magazine’s Hot 100 Realtors for 15 consecutive years. He also is 

a member of the Re/Max Circle of Legends. Ron has closed more sales in 

Winter Garden than anyone on the planet and is ranked fifth in the ORRA 

MLS history for closings. 

REAL ESTATE / INSURANCE / FINANCIAL DIRECTORY 




Insurance Agents 

Jim Brandt, President 

Sun Insurance Services Inc. 

7680 Universal Blvd., Suite 198, Orlando • 407-781-1602 

jim@suninsuranceservices.com • www.suninsuranceservices.com 

Jim Brandt began his insurance career in 1980 as an adjuster in Baton Rouge, 

Louisiana, shortly after graduating from Louisiana State University. He has lived in Dr. 

Phillips since 1991 and was chosen to establish the East Coast presence for Countrywide 

Insurance Services. After building that into one of the largest, most successful independent 

insurance agencies in the United States, Jim left to begin Sun Insurance Services 

Inc. in 2003. Jim led Sun Insurance Services to quick growth through innovative partnerships 

with national mortgage companies. Sun Insurance Services has consistently been 

voted a Best of Southwest insurance agency by Southwest Orlando Bulletin readers. 

Kory Brown, Agent 



kory@suninsuranceservices.com • www.suninsuranceservices.com 

Kory Brown has more than 14 years of experience writing all types of insurance, with 

a major focus on new home purchases. He partners with real estate agents, mortgage 

brokers and inspectors to ensure a smooth closing process. Kory was born in Illinois, 

but he has called Central Florida home for more than 20 years. He has two children, 

both born and raised in this community, with his oldest proudly serving in the U.S. Navy. 

Frank Gonzalas, Agent 



frank@suninsuranceservices.com • www.suninsuranceservices.com 

Frank Gonzalas specializes in all lines of personal insurance, including homeowners, 

auto, umbrella, flood, watercraft and motorcycle. Born in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, 

Frank is fluent in Spanish and English. He lived in Brooklyn, New York, until his early 

teens, when his family moved to Winter Park. He and his wife, Jessica, have a son, 

Alexander, and a daughter, Amirah. Outside of work, Frank enjoys spending time with 

family; watching the New York Yankees and boxing; and reading books about entrepreneurship, 

real estate and motivation. 

Mark Santo Domingo, Agent 



mark@suninsuranceservices.com • www.suninsuranceservices.com 

A native of New York, Mark Santo Domingo is a personal lines agent with more 

than 35 years of experience. Mark originally came to Florida to play baseball for the 

University of Miami. He transferred to Temple University, where he continued to play 

while earning undergraduate and master’s degrees in risk management. Mark lives in 

Davenport and spends his free time with his son, Kevin. 

Donna Williams, Agent 



donna@suninsuranceservices.com • www.suninsuranceservices.com 

Donna Williams has more than 20 years of experience selling homeowners, 

auto, flood, renters and umbrella insurance, and she serves customers throughout 

Florida. She works closely with real estate agents to make sure homebuyers have 

everything they need for a smooth closing process. Donna grew up in Queens, 

New York, and went to Andrew Jackson High School and Borough of Manhattan 

Community College. She serves as the vice president of her local American Legion 

Auxiliary. 

Financial 

Michael S. Wytiaz, CFP 

Charles Schwab 

4848 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Suite 204, Orlando • 407-909-0485 

www.schwab.com/windermere 

1600 Hancock Road, Suite D, Clermont • 352-404-5238 

www.schwab.com/clermont 

Michael S. Wytiaz, CFP, is a Charles Schwab franchisee, and he operates his 

own independent branches in Windermere and Clermont, where he partners with 

his clients to understand their goals, create personalized plans and provide investing 

guidance. Clients will understand where their money is invested and why, 

how their investments are performing, and how much it’s costing them. Plus, they’ll 

have access to Schwab’s portfolio management expertise, insights and specialists. 

It’s a modern approach to wealth management — so clients can take ownership 

of their financial lives. ª 

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 

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


Summer Kids 

C a lendar 

With the school year coming to an end, 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! 

CREATIVE ARTS CAMPS at Orlando Premier Music Instruction, 

www.orlando-premier-music-instruction.com, opmi@opmi-lessons.com. If your 

child has a passion for music, cooking, art, dance, theater, writing or film, an 

OPMI specialty summer camp can be his or her perfect summer experience. 

OPMI offers a wide variety of specialized summer camps that help children 

explore their creativity, improve social skills, grow physically and emotionally, 

and broaden their knowledge and perspectives, all while making new friends! 

Orlando 

Premier Music 

Instruction 

offers a wide 

variety of 

specialized 

summer camps. 




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. 

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. 

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 

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

engaged. 

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! 

PERFORMING ARTS CAMPS offered by Orlando Repertory 

Theatre, 1001 E. Princeton St., Orlando, www.orlandorep.com/camps-classes. 

Summer is the time to shine at Orlando REP! Kids are ready to rediscover 

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 

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. 

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! 

SUMMER DAY CAMPS - JUNE 14 - JULY 23 

SUMMER NIGHT SESSIONS - JULY 6 - JULY 30 

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


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

self-expression and more. 

their passion, reconnect with friends and do what they love — performances, 

escape rooms, dancing, designing and more! Together, Orlando REP will give 

them the best summer yet! 

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 

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

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

a one-time summer activity fee of $150. 

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 

CONTINUED ON PAGE 30 

Whether you are looking for an all-day camp or a specialty 

camp that will inspire your child, OPMI has the camp for you! 

Extended care options available! 

See what we're offering kids ages 5-14 

in the Greater Orlando area! 

Showcases every Friday 

for family and friends! 

INQUIRE ABOUT LOCATIONS ON OUR WEBSITE 

www.orlando-premier-music-instruction.com 

OR EMAIL US AT OPMI@OPMI-LESSONS.COM 

$25 discounts 

for siblings 

ROCK BAND/POP VOCAL Ever wonder what it's like to be a Rock Star? These 

exciting camps bring all the elements of performing as a pop star or in a band together 

while teaching fundamentals in guitar, keyboards, drums, bass, and vocals, as well as 

stage performance in preparation for a final show! Knowledge of instruments is helpful, 

but not required. 9am-3pm, Monday-Friday, $225 

STORYBOOK Step into the world of creative writing and illustration with former Disney 

Animator and renowned published author/illustrator, Peter Raymundo. Explore the 

creative aspects of bringing an original story idea to life through lessons in creative writing, 

drawing, painting, and illustration techniques. This is a camp you do not want to miss! 

9am-3pm, Monday-Friday, $250 

THEATER Is the stage calling you? Be the next show stopper! Our theater camps 

provide instruction in expression, characterization, gestures and improvisation 

techniques through dialogue, movement and singing as well as set and prop creation, 

costume and behind-the-scenes tech work, all in preparation for a final show! 


TASTISIONS “Cooking With a Vision” Come join us for an exciting 5-day culinary 

experience as we cook up some of our best culinary creations. Each day will focus on a 

different lesson, menu, and of course - tastings with creations to share with family and 

friends. Campers are required to bring an apron and “take-home” containers! 


CREATIVE ARTS Find the inner artist in you! Whether you have an interest in 

drawing, painting, sculpting, print making, collage, or animation, we have the art program 

for you! Taught by master artists and professionals in their fields, our Art Camps will help 

you hone your skills and broaden your creativity! (Two different art programs to choose 

from.) 9am-3pm, Monday-Friday, $250 

STOP MOTION ANIMATION Want to become the next stop motion movie director and 

producer? Campers will learn, practice and then implement the five relevant principles of 

animation to create their own story boards, create their own claymation characters, build their 

own movie sets, and direct and produce their own claymation stop motion animation film(s)! 


PUPPET MASTERS Taught by a former Disney Puppeteer, this fantastic camp takes kids on 

a journey through the amazing world of Puppetry, exploring various styles and uses of puppets in 

modern stage production. Take a hands-on approach to learning various puppeteering techniques 

even create your own puppets to showcase in a final stage performance! 

9am-3pm, Monday-Friday $250



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

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. 

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 

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 

Super Awesome Cool Pottery summer camps 

boast weekly themes. 

themes. Each clay and 

painting project is designed 

to be an opportunity for selfexpression 

as new skills are 

taught. Awesome artistic 

experiences create a new 

sense of self-confidence. 

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, 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 

The staff at Safety First Swim School makes 

students their first priority. 

Lake Cane Tennis Center Fun and Sun Tennis 

Summer Camp boasts a fun and outgoing environment. 

lessons reduce the risk of 

drowning by 88%. 

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. 


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. 


System offers virtual library camps 

and classes filled with activities for all 

ages. 

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 lifeguardsupervised 

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. 

VIRTUAL LIBRARY CAMPS 

AND CLASSES through the 


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


Each year, the Central Florida 

Hotel and Lodging Association, 

in partnership with the CFHLA 

Foundation and the support of its 

members, raises funds for local hospitality 

student scholarships and grants 

through the CFHLA Gives program. 

Since 2000, the CFHLA Foundation 

has awarded more than $925,000 

in hospitality student scholarships. 

This successful program would not be 

possible without the support of its 26 

MVP Committee members. 

While 2020 was an extremely challenging 

year for the tourism and hospitality 

community, the 

CFHLA MVP Committee 

remained dedicated and 

worked tirelessly to secure 

monetary donations 

TOURISM UPDATE 

submitted by Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association 

as well as physical donations for two 

online auctions. 

In total, the CFHLA Gives program 

was able to raise more than 

$110,000, and CFHLA hosted the 

Annual Gives Luncheon at the JW 

Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek 

Resort & Spa on April 29. During the 

event, CFHLA distributed 47 hospitality 

student scholarships and four 

educational grants within the Central 

Florida community. 

Two of the largest scholarships were 

awarded to local students, including 

Freedom High School student Annika 

Swayze and Dr. Phillips High 

School student Javynn Banee’ 

Alexander. Annika was awarded a 

multiyear scholarship to support her 

studies at Valencia College beginning 

this fall, and Javynn received the 

seventh consecutive Don and Lorraine 

Freeberg Foundation “Full-Ride” scholarship 

for the UCF Rosen College 

of Hospitality Management. 

Javyn Banee’ Alexander (second from right) of 

Dr. Phillips High School receives the 2021 Don and 

Lorraine Freeberg Foundation Full-Ride Scholarship. She is 

pictured with (l. to r.) Robert Agrusa, president/CEO of 

Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association; 

Donna Smithberger, director of human resources at the 

Caribe Royale Orlando; and Amaury Piedra, managing 

director at the Caribe Royale Orlando. 

The Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association, in partnership with the CFHLA Foundation, awards hospitality 

student scholarships. ª 

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.

n Charities/Fundraisers 

Through May 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. 

June 4 — Hats & Roses 

Kids Beating Cancer presents Hats & Roses, a 

derby party luncheon and fashion show that 

includes a gourmet three-course lunch with 

unlimited cocktails, Champagne and wine, at 

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney 

World Resort. Valet parking is complimentary. 

Time: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Cost: $150, $200 

for VIP, with proceeds benefiting KBC. For 

more information, call 407-894-2888 or visit 

www.kbcluncheon.com. 

June 8 — Putt For Brighter Futures 

Congo River Golf, 5901 International Drive, 

Orlando, hosts Putt for Brighter Futures, a 

night of minigolf to support UCP of Central 

Florida. Festivities include an open bar for 

beer and wine, complimentary shaved ice, 

raffles, giveaways and photos with Congo 

River’s gators. Food trucks are available for 

food purchases. Foursomes and sponsorships 

are available. Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Cost: 

$35-up, $15 for children. For more information, 

email development@ucpcfl.org. 

n Children’s Program 

June 1 — Entrepreneurship Competition 

For Kids Entry Deadline 

Kids Idea Tank holds its third annual 

Entrepreneurship Competition for Kids 

(13-younger), during which participants 

have a chance to win $1,000. Finalists 

pitch their ideas over Zoom, June 23 at 5 

p.m., to a star-studded panel of judges for 

cash prizes and a trophy. For more information 

and details on how to enter, visit 

www.kidsideatank.com. 

June 21-25 — Virtual Vacation Bible 

School 

St. Luke’s United Methodist Church hosts a 

free virtual Vacation Bible School for children 

from rising VPK through rising sixth graders. 

Registration is required. For more information, 

email Lana Stevens, lstevens@st.lukes.org; 

to RSVP online, visit www.st.lukes.org/ 

virtualvbs. 

COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD 

n Classes/Programs 

Ongoing — Video Tutorials 

AARP’s Home Alone Alliance offers six new 

video tutorials that focus on how to operate specialized 

medical equipment, including oxygen 

equipment, using a nebulizer, using a mechanical 

lift for transfers, managing home infusions, 

preventing infection in home peritoneal dialysis, 

and caring for the vascular access site in home 

dialysis. The videos are free and available 

online 24/7. For more information, visit www. 

aarp.org/ppi/initiatives/home-alone-alliance/ 

family-caregiving-videos. 

n Events/Performances 

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 

with 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. 

June 5-Sept. 5 — Enchanted Fairy Doors 

Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave., 

Orlando, hosts Enchanted Fairy Doors, an 

exhibit that features 20 one-of-a-kind, whimsical 

fairy doors, which inspire children’s imaginative 

world of enchanted forests, secret gardens and 

the magic of fairies. Doors are located throughout 

the 50-acre gardens. A map of the fairy 

doors and narrative of each “fairy” is given 

to every guest visiting the gardens. Cost: $10, 

adults; $5, children 4-17. For more information, 

call 407-246-2620 or visit leugardens.org. 

n Miscellaneous 

Ongoing — Blood Plasma Needed 

The Fight Is In Us encourages people who 

have recently recovered from COVID-19 

to donate blood plasma. The plasma could 

contain antibodies that could help others 

fight off the disease. For more information, 

visit volunteersforcommunityimpact.org/ 

plasma-donate or thefightisinus.org/en-US/ 

donate-plasma/home. 

Through Dec. 30 — Virtual Pints & 

Parables 

St. Luke’s United Methodist Church invites adults 

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 at 8 p.m. For more information 

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

www.st.lukes.org/adults. 

Through Dec. 30 — Virtual 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 8 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 

compiled by Lisa Sagers 

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 25 — Tuesday Networking Meeting 

West Orange Chamber of Commerce hosts a networking 

meeting that is exclusive to one person per industry 

in the Center for Health Improvement at Orlando 

Health Emergency Room and Medical Pavilion 

— Horizon West, 17000 Porter Road (Second 

Floor), Winter Garden. Time: 8-9 a.m. Cost: Free 

for WOCC members. For more information, email 

Adam Markowitz, adam@markowitzaccounting.com. 

May 25, June 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 — 

Virtual Toastmasters Meetings 

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 26 — Virtual Horizon West 

Networking Meeting 

West Orange Chamber of Commerce hosts a virtual 

networking meeting that is exclusive to one person 

per industry. Time: 8-9 a.m. Cost: Free for WOCC 

members. For more information, email Kira Colon, 

kcolon@maventri.com. 

May 26, June 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 — 

Virtual Toastmasters Meetings 

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. 

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. 




May 27, June 3, 10, 17 & 24 — Virtual 

Toastmasters Meetings 

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. 

June 10 — West Orange Republican 

Women Luncheon 

The West Orange Republican Women, 

Federated holds a luncheon meeting with 

a guest speaker at Arnold Palmer Bay 

Hill Club & Lodge, 9000 Bay Hill Blvd., 

Orlando. Reservations are required. Time: 

11 a.m. Cost: $35, cash or check only. 

For more information or to RSVP, email 

worw.federated@gmail.com. 

n Support Group 

May 27, June 3, 10, 17 & 24 — Virtual 

LGBTQ Support Group Meetings 

St. Luke’s United Methodist Church hosts 

Life Together, Zoom support group meetings 

for LGBTQ persons and allies wanting 

to navigate life together, creating community 

and friendship and experiencing 

spiritual growth. Registration is required. 

Time: Thursdays at 8 p.m. For more information, 

email Liz Vasquez, evasquez@st.lukes.org; 

to register, visit https://u.st.lukes.org/default. 

aspx?page=3433&event=13135. 

n Volunteer 

Opportunities 

Ongoing — Virtual Volunteers Needed 

RSVP seeks volunteers to help make masks for 

Cornerstone Hospice & Palliative Care. For more 

information or if interested, call Tyler VanBuren, 

630-335-3084; or email tvanburen@vcifl.org. 

Ongoing — Volunteers Needed 

The Foster Grandparent Program seeks 

limited-income volunteers 55-older to join in 

helping children in schools all around Central 

Florida. For more information, call 407-298- 

4180 or visit volunteersforcommunityimpact. 

org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/ 

FGP-Info-Flyer-1-13-20.pdf. 

Ongoing — Pet Foster Homes Needed 

As part of its Pet Peace of Mind program, 

Cornerstone Hospice seeks foster homes for 

pets left behind after their owners pass away. 

For more information or to receive an application 

to foster, email ppom@cshospice.org. 

For more information about hospice volunteer 

opportunities, call Sharon Smith, 404-290- 

1583; or email ssmith@vcifl.org. 

Ongoing — Volunteers/Docents Needed 

Oakland Nature Preserve, 747 Machete 

Trail, Oakland, seeks adults interested in 

learning about the history, wildlife, plants 

and restoration efforts at ONP to volunteer 

at the preserve to greet visitors, help answer 

questions and lead a tour from time to time. 

Workdays are Mondays and/or Saturdays. 

For more information, email outreach@ 

oaklandnaturepreserve.org or visit www. 

oaklandnaturepreserve.org/guide. To register 

online, visit oaklandnaturepreserve.org. 

Ongoing — Volunteer Veterans Needed 

Cornerstone Hospice seeks volunteers who 

are veterans of America’s armed forces to 

honor patients who are veterans by visiting 

them in their homes, a facility or a 

hospital. Cornerstone Hospice is a four-star 

level member of the We Honor Veterans 

program, a national initiative to provide 

veterans in hospice care with specialized 

services. All volunteers must participate in 

mandatory training that includes an overview 

of what is hospice care and how 

volunteers play an important role in caring 

for patients. For more information, call 

Olivia Davidson, 407-206-5060; or email 

odavidso@cshospice.org. 


The Mustard Seed of Central Florida, 12 

Mustard Seed Lane, Orlando, seeks volunteers 

who can help with donation sorting, 

mattress recycling, warehouse maintenance, 

administrative work, special events or general 

maintenance. For more information, 

call 407-875-2040, ext. 110; or email 

jessi@mustardseedfla.org. 


The town of Oakland seeks volunteers to 

assist in various fun and fulfilling roles at 

The Healthy West Orange Arts and Heritage 

Center. Applicants must consent to a criminal 

background check. For more information, call 

Pamela Stewart, 407-656-1117, ext. 2112; 

email arts&heritage@oaklandfl.gov; or visit 

bit.ly/artsandheritagecenter. 


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 

The West Orange Chamber of Commerce 

FACILITATING OPPORTUNITY FOR OVER 45 YEARS 

Dr. Phillips | Gotha | Horizon West | Lake Avalon | MetroWest | Oakland 

Ocoee | Orlo Vista | Pine Hills | Windermere | Winter Garden 

(407) 656-1304 

Networking 

Marketing 

Education 

Advocacy 

Live and in Person. 

Your Message Targeted. 

Sharpen Your Saw. 

Stay “In The Know” So You Can Grow. 

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• 95 Chevy Corvette 

• Very Good Condition 

• Clean, many new parts 

80,000 miles 

FOR SALE 

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Ken 

PROFESSIONAL HANDYMAN 

Interior & Exterior Painting 

All Flooring • Pressure & Chemical Cleaning • Screen Repair 

Drywall • Texture • Popcorn Removal • Kitchen & Bath Remodeling 

407-769-1348 

All Repairs, Improvements & Odd Jobs, Large or Small 

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ALL FACETS OF LANDSCAPE DESIGN 

Irrigation Repair & Service Calls From $40 

Landscape Design • Palm Trees 

Boulders • Shrubs • Trees 

Pruning • Tree Removal • Land 

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Landscape Design • Red, Black, 

Brown - Colorized Mulch 

SOD Specials 

Zoysia Sod ........... $346 per pallet installed 

St. Augustine ....... $336 per pallet installed 

Contact Mike 352-708-9838 

EMPLOYMENT. 

Children's Lighthouse Learning Center 

is hiring teachers and teacher 

assistants. Located in Winter Garden. 

Please call 407-395-0077. 

Mention 

this ad and 

get 10% off 

any service. 

Universal Service Center 

YOUR ONE-STOP, ON-THE-SPOT SERVICE CENTER. 

• ASE Certified Techs 

• Import Service 

• Precise Diagnostics 

• Tires 

• Towing 

• Oil Change 

ALL GENERAL REPAIRS. 

• Batteries 

• A/C Repairs 

• Brakes 

5989 Turkey Lake Road • 407-345-4860 

Hours of operation: 

M-F 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. 

Sat 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 

Sun Closed

P.O. Box 851 

Windermere, FL 34786

052021 SWB DIGITAL EDITION

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