050423_Best Mom in Southwest _DIGITAL EDITION

32ND ANNUAL BEST MOM IN SOUTHWEST CONTEST ... PAGE 12 

O 

The heartbeat of the community 

ORLANDO BULLETIN 

May 4 — 17, 2023 | Since 1986 

©Christian Morales 

A Jackie 

of All Trades 

Jackie Siegel, a Windermere 

resident and the “Queen of Versailles,” 

inspires a Broadway production.

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH BUFFET 

MAY 14 | 11 A.M.–4:30 P.M. 

$58.95 * 

per adult 

(prepaid reservation) 

$24.95 * 

per child, 4 –12 

(3 and under free) 

More Than 60 Dishes | Unlimited Champagne & Mimosas | Free Self-Parking 

RosenCentre.com/MothersDay | 407.996.3969 | 9840 International Drive 

*Not inclusive of tax and service charge. Walk-ins welcome based on availability and for an additional charge.

www.SouthwestOrlandoBulletin.com x May 4 — 17, 2023 x 3

4 x May 4 — 17, 2023 x www.SouthwestOrlandoBulletin.com 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

NOTEWORTHY NEWS ....................................................................... 5 

I-Drive ESOL Pilot Program Launches 

SUMMER KIDS CALENDER .................................................................. 6 

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE ................................................................. 11 

A Jackie of All Trades 

32ND ANNUAL BEST MOM IN SOUTHWEST CONTEST ..................... 12 

COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD ........................................................ 20 

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER 

Rick V. Martin 

VICE PRESIDENT 

Yvette Martin 

May 4, 2023 

Volume XXXVII, No. 13 

MANAGING EDITOR 

Lisa Sagers 

lisa@kearneypublishing.com 

ASSISTANT EDITOR 

Lauren Gonsalves 

lauren@kearneypublishing.com 

FREELANCE WRITERS 

Karen Nimetz 

Debra Wood 

Dr. Emilia 

Godoy-Rapport 

401 Main Street, Suite A, 

Windermere, FL 34786 

407.909.1097 

WWW.WINDERMERESMILE.COM 

P.O. Box 851 

Windermere, FL 34786 

407-351-1573 

www.southwestorlandobulletin.com 

The Southwest Orlando Bulletin is published semimonthly by 

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Neither the publishers nor the advertisers are responsible or liable for 

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©2023/Cornerstone Publishing & Multi-Media LLC 

CIRCULATION 

Robert Barlow 

MARKETING CONSULTANTS 

Madeline DeVito 

407-351-1573, option 1 

mdevito@kearneypublishing.com 

Michelle Oakes 

321-277-3467 

michelle 

@cornerstonepublishinggroup.com

Throughout the International Drive 

hospitality corridor, the sounds of employees 

speaking languages other 

than English fill the air. But now, they 

have an opportunity to learn English 

and advance their careers through 

the English Program for Workers in 

the International Drive Corridor pilot 

program. 

“Learn the language, and the 

future is unlimited,” said Harris 

Rosen, a Cypress Point resident 

and president/chief operating officer 

of Rosen Hotels & Resorts, during 

a visit to the classroom at Rosen 

Plaza, where students were learning 

the English language. “We are 

changing people’s lives. We want to 

keep growing this program.” 

County Launches Pilot Program 

Nearly 75,000 people work in 

the International Drive Resort Area. 

The International Drive Community 

Redevelopment Act (CRA) Advisory 

Group recommended offering 

English classes to increase retention 

and support employees’ personal 

growth. 

According to the U.S. Census 

Bureau, nearly 40% of Orange 

County residents speak a language 

other than English. Twenty-six percent 

of the population speaks 

Spanish and nearly 35,000 of those 

people report not speaking English 

very well. About 2% of the total 

Orange County population speaks 

Haitian Creole. 

In September, Orange County 

launched the pilot program. The 

county offered the program to several 

hotel and resort properties but only 

Rosen Hotels & Properties accepted. 

Nearly 65 employees signed up. 

Rosen explained that when he was 

in the U.S. Army, he learned to speak 

Korean and German in order to communicate 

with the people where he 

was based. 

“Learning the language where you 

live is critical,” Rosen said. 

Southwest resident and Orange 

County Mayor Jerry Demings 

described the program as “a perfect 

example [of a] public-private 

partnership to address workforce 

NOTEWORTHY 

challenges” in the county’s 

$75 billion tourism industry. 

“Language is key to 

opening the door of opportunity,” 

Demings said. “We 

would not be here without 

Rosen Hotels.” 

Rosen Hotels & Resorts 

has offered English as a 

Second Language (ESOL) 

courses for more than 20 

years. The company employs 

people from all over 

the world. Some of the employees 

who took the early course 

are now managers and supervisors 

at the company. 

“It is so important where you live 

to learn the language,” Rosen said. 

“It helps in terms of promotion and 

your ego when you can talk to people 

and express your feelings and 

understand what they are saying.” 

Rosen encouraged the students 

in attendance to stick with it and 

thanked them for taking the course. 

He spoke about the opportunities 

available to people who have 

the ability to speak more than one 

language. 

“If you have a native language and 

you are living in someplace where 

they speak a different language, you 

will survive, but that is all you will 

do,” Rosen said. “Your future won’t 

be as bright as it could be.” 

About the Pilot Program 

UCF Global delivers the courses 

geared toward the needs of adults 

in the hospitality industry. Orange 

County’s government pays for the 

instructional elements from CRA 

funding. The pilot program costs 

$127,510. The instructors speak 

Spanish, Creole and English. 

The pilot offers three eight-weeklong 

curriculum levels: English in 

NEWS 

I-Drive ESOL Pilot Program Launches 

Rosen Hotels Empowers Employees to Learn English 

by Debra Wood 

Harris Rosen, a Cypress Point resident and 

president/chief operating officer of Rosen Hotels & 

Resorts, speaks to Practical Language Learned students. 

www.SouthwestOrlandoBulletin.com x May 4 — 17, 2023 x 5 

Action, the fundamentals; Practical 

Language Learned, the beginning 

level; and High Intermediate, a hybrid 

program, partially in person and 

some on a computer with instructorled 

and self-paced components. 

31 

Jennifer Haddad, M.Ed., program 

director of UCF Global engagement, 

indicated in an Orange 

County released statement that 

nearly 64% of the pilot program’s 

participants are taking the courses 

to gain better work opportunities as 

their main purpose for participating 

in the program. 

University of Central Florida educators 

are collecting data to measure 

the pilot program’s success for 

the employees and employers, and 

they will evaluate operational challenges. 

That information will help the 

county develop a sustainable ESOL 

program after the pilot is completed 

next month. 

Rosen Hotels provides the space. 

Employees take the courses as part 

of their workday, twice weekly for 

two hours. 

Now, the county and Rosen want 

to grow the program to more properties 

on I-Drive. Interested businesses 

can contact the Orange County 

Office of Economic Development. 

“If we can expand this, how beautiful 

it will be,” Rosen said. ª 

AnnVarkeyRealtor@gmail.com 

7232 Sand Lake Rd #103 Orlando Fl 32819


Summer Kids 

C a lendar 

With summer just around the 

corner, kids and parents are 

looking forward to getting out 

of the house. If you’re seeking 

kid-friendly activities to keep 

your children entertained, active 

and out of trouble, then 

look no further. Southwest 

Orlando Bulletin’s annual 

Summer Kids Calendars provide 

great ideas to get you 

started! 

Footworks 

Dance Studio 

offers summer 

programs for all 

ages. 

DANCE CAMPS at Footworks 

Dance Studio, 1201 Winter Garden 

Vineland Road, Winter Garden; 407-877- 

2260; www.footworksdancestudio.com, 

offer summer programs for all ages. Camps 

begin June 12, and the five-week summer 

class program is June 12-July 28. Classes 

include ballet, hip-hop, musical theater/ 

jazz, acro, aerial silks, Shining Star combo 

class, Twinkle Star combo class, stretch 

and conditioning, rotations and improvisation, 

Wee Hop & Tumble, and Mommy & 

Me. 

LEARN TO ROW 

SUMMER CAMPS 

Weekly camps for middle and high school students 

of all fitness levels. No experience required! 

OarsRowing.com/Summer 

ORLANDO AREA 

ROWING SOCIETY 

All Together Now 

June 3 - July 29 

In-person and virtual events for kids of all ages 

Fun - Educational - Free


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

engaged. 

LAKE CYPRESS SUMMER CAMP at Windermere Preparatory 

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

camp.windermereprep.com, offers a program where campers choose their 

own adventure! Each week boasts a different theme and includes on-campus 

field trips, lots of specialty camp rooms, swimming, sports, dance, martial arts, 

inflatables and more. Dates run June 5-July 28. Choose any weeks you want! 

Camp days are 9 a.m.-3 p.m. for $299, or extended day is 7:45 a.m.-5:45 

p.m. for $389. 

The 

Orange 

County 

Library 

System 

hosts 

Summer at 

Your Library 

for all ages. 

LIBRARY SUMMER FUN takes place through Orange County Library 

System’s Summer at Your Library, 407-835-7323, ocls.info/summer. 

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 

Start early June 

TOP COACHES 

Beginners and High 

Performance 

Start early June 

For all your summer tennis requirements at 

For all your summer tennis requirements at 

Windermere Prep School and West Orange Country Club. 

dermere Prep School and West Orange Country Club. 

407 928 6666 

(407) 928-6666 

OrlandoTennisAcademy.com 

info@orlandotennisacademy.com 

6189 Winter Garden-Vineland Rd, Windermere 

West Orange Country Club 

3300 W Orange Country Club Dr, Winter Garden 

354455-1 

TOP COACHES 

Beginners For and High all your summer tennis requirements 

Performance at Windermere Prep School and 

West Orange Country Club. 

Top Coaches on the Courts All Summer 

#1 Tennis Facility in Southwest Orlando 

Children of All Ages and Abilities 

407 928 6666


CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 

Fun, educational and free programs and activities are available for all ages. 

Registration is open for Summer at Your Library, taking place June 3-July 29. 

MUSIC CAMPS at School of Rock, 6700 Conroy-Windermere Road, 

Suite 140, Orlando; 407-710-9100; orlando.schoolofrock.com, offer several 

weeklong camp sessions for summer 2023. Camps are available for students 

ages 7-18, with or without prior experience, in several formats. Rock 101 

camps are aimed at younger beginners and introduce campers to a variety 

of instruments and how to play in a band setting, while Performance camps 

require some experience and feature a live rock music show at a local venue 

on the last day of camp. 

ROWING SUMMER CAMPS with Orlando Area Rowing 

Society, 2457 Maguire Road, Windermere; oarsrowing.com/summer; 

info@oarsrowing.com. OARS holds an Open Boathouse event this month. Try 

School of Rock offers a wide variety of music camps and workshops. 

Orlando Area Rowing Society camp participants improve their strength and fitness 

while having fun on the water. 

REGISTER TODAY AT CAMP.WINDERMEREPREP.COM 

For Children Ages 5-14 

9 AM to 3 PM (Extended Day Available) 

A Variety of Activities including: On-campus Field 

Trips, Crafts, Field Games, Swimming, Sports, 

Dance, Cooking, Martial Arts, Specialty Camp 

Rooms and more! 

Sessions in June and July with Weekly Themes 

Discounts for Siblings and Entire Summer 

Enrollment 

Kim Schultz, Camp Director 

Kim Schultz, 407-905-7737 Camp Director opt. 7 

407-905-7737 camp@windermereprep.com 

opt. 8 

camp@windermereprep.com

a new sport and learn to row this summer. Weekly camps are available for 

middle and high school students of all fitness levels. No experience required! 


camps include four exciting days of youth empowerment through real-world 

aviation experiences such as ground school basics, VR interactive flight simulation, 

drones, special guest speakers, instructional flights and more. Camp 

Session Alpha is July 10-13, and Camp Session Bravo is July 24-27. For more 

information, call 407-719-0912 or email info@visionofflight.org. To register, 

visit visionofflight.org/vision-of-flight-youth-aviation-summer-camp. 

Young 

people are 

introduced 

to the 

world of 

aeronautics 

through 

Vision of 

Flight’s 

summer 

camps. 

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

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

the lives of children from diverse Jewish backgrounds and affiliations through 

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

Nurse Practitioners: 

Esther Pelissier, ARPN-BC 

Irene Gan, PMHNP 

Raykha Crag-Chaderton, PMHNP-BC 

Nadine Massillon, ARPN 

Therapists: 

Michael Kellogg, LMHC, ATR-BC 

Randie Morillo, LCSW, ACSW 

Amy Singleton, LMHC 

Brooke Parker, LMHC 

Cristal Daniel, LMHC 


Nadine Massillon 

Esther Pelissier 

STEM AVIATION SUMMER CAMPS at Vision of Flight are unlike 

any other summer camps in Central Florida. Geared toward ages 10-18, two 

SUMMER 

CAMP 

Ages 10-18 

ORLANDO EXECUTIVE AIRPORT 

ALPHA Session: July 10th - 13th 

Bravo Session: July 24th - 27th 

(9 AM - 3 PM Daily) 

• Ground School Basics 

• VR Interactive Flight Simulation 

Camp Itinerary: 

• Drones / UAV Build and Test Fly 

• Special Guest Speakers 

• Instruction Flight 

(Real Flight Time) 

For more info: (407) 719-0912 • info@visionofflight.org 

Register Today! VisionofFlight.org



Windermere Preparatory School gives its campers hands-on tennis experience. 

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

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

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

as a trendsetter in Jewish camping with innovative ideas and creative programs. 

CGI is accredited by the American Camp Association. Camp sessions 

are June 26-July 21 from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Extended care is available. 

SUMMER TENNIS AND CAMPS at Windermere Preparatory 

School and its tri-sport tennis/golf/swim at West Orange Country Club, 

3300 West Orange Country Club Drive, Winter Garden, begin May 29. The 

program includes fun, games and activities while keeping cool, as well as a 

lifeguard-supervised swimming pool cool-off! The cost is $325 per person 

for five days from 9 a.m.-noon. Lessons/junior programs continue throughout 

the summer with top tennis professionals on staff. For more information 

or electronic registration, visit www.orlandotennisacademy.com or email 

info@orlandotennisacademy.com. ª 

SUMMER 2023 

June 26th – July 21st 

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

children from diverse Jewish backgrounds and affiliations, through a 

stimulating camping experience. Campers are infused with a deep sense 

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

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

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


A Jackie of All Trades 

The Queen of Versailles Sets Her Sights on Broadway 

Jackie Siegel can truly do almost 

anything. The versatile “Queen 

of Versailles” is a devoted wife to 

Westgate Resorts founder David 

Siegel, a proud mother of eight, 

philanthropist, socialite, beauty 

pageant director, co-founder of the 

Victoria’s Voice Foundation, as well 

as the star of the hit reality show The 

Queen of Versailles Reigns Again 

on HBO Max. The Windermere 

resident now is also the subject of an 

upcoming Broadway show. 

“My family and I spent a lot of time 

on the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier 

and Westgate Cocoa Beach resort 

[during the pandemic],” Jackie said. 

“I was approached by a woman, 

Lindsey Ferrentino, who recognized 

me and mentioned that she 

was a playwright.” 

The chance meeting led the two 

women to begin working on a script 

based on Jackie’s life. 

“Lindsey put the script together 

and presented it to some Broadway 

contacts in New York. Now, here 

we are several years later with 

Windermere residents Jackie and David Siegel. 

an amazing team [including producer 

Bill Damaschke, director 

Michael Arden and composer 

Stephen Schwartz]. Kristin 

Chenowith — who is producing as 

well — has signed on to play me.” 

Jackie said the show is about 

one to two years away from hitting 

Broadway. 

In the meantime, Jackie recently 

had the opportunity to meet 

Chenowith. 

“I flew down to Naples at the end 

of March to see one of her performances, 

and that’s when she had officially 

announced to the audience, 

from the stage, that she was going 

to be portraying me,” she said. “She 

put a spotlight on me in the middle 

of the audience and had me stand 

and wave to everyone, which was 

very exciting.” 

Later, Chenowith flew with the 

Siegels on their private jet to 

Orlando to get a glimpse into the life 

of Jackie. 

“We had a Queen of Versailles 

Broadway show celebration 


PROMOTIONAL FEATURE 

party during the trip from Naples 

to Orlando, which was a lot of fun,” 

Jackie said. 

While in town, Chenowith toured 

Versailles, which is still in the construction 

phase. Jackie said there 

was an instant bond between the 

two. 

“She spent time in my closet, and 

we bought some matching outfits 

together, and I presented her with 

matching sashes,” she said. “Kristin 

says she is trying to capture my 

Endwell accent. I didn’t even realize 

I still had an accent!” 

As for the notable height difference, 

Jackie said, “Kristin is a petite 

version of me, but she has such 

a magnificent stage presence that 

more than makes up for it.” 

While fans may have to wait a 

while before the Broadway show 

comes to fruition, they can tune in this 

summer for Season 2 of the popular 

Queen of Versailles Reigns Again. 

The reality show was even nominated 

for a Realscreen award this past 

year. Season 1 chronicled Jackie 

and her family in an attempt to finish 

construction on their 90,000-squarefoot 

palace. 


Jackie 

and David 

Siegel (front) 

with their 

children, 

(back, l, to 

r.) Daniel, 

David, 

Drew, 

(middle, 

l. to r.) 

Jacqueline, 

Debbie, 

Jordan and 

Jonquil. 

“Versailles had a lot of damage 

from Hurricane Ian, and unfortunately, 

the rooms that were finished 

are the rooms that got destroyed 

during the hurricane,” Jackie sadly 

noted. “We are hoping the home 

will be complete in a year from now. 

“The race is on to see who can 

get Versailles completed first — us 

or the Broadway stage version,” 

Jackie added jokingly. 

Jackie enjoys giving back to 

the community any way she can. 

In 2010, she opened Thrift Mart, 

an upscale thrift store in Ocoee, 

where the motto is “Locals Helping 

Locals.” She is currently working 

with contractors to renovate that location. 

Jackie said she is so grateful 

for the life she has and values every 

opportunity to give back to others. 

“I never expected to build 

Versailles or to have a Broadway 

show,” she said. “I must have an 

angel somewhere looking out for 

me. I try to always do as much as I 

can for people. Even when I didn’t 

have money, I would offer to help 

clean people’s houses or babysit 

for them. I think it’s all coming back 

to me.” ª


32nd Annual 

Best 

Mom 

in Southwest 

In 1992, the Southwest Orlando Bulletin — 

then just a little more than 6 years old — 

introduced what has become a Southwest 

Orlando institution — the annual Best Mom in 

Southwest contest. Now in its 32nd year, the 

contest is a way for residents to express to 

their moms how important they truly are. 

It seems that mothers are perpetually 

protecting their children from the ills of the 

world, tirelessly cooking and cleaning, and 

preparing their children for adult life, all 

while managing to somehow be the kindest 

and gentlest women, despite occasionally 

having to dole out discipline. 

Congratulations to this year’s winners: 

Angela Murphy-Osborne overall winner; 

Ava Brack, 12-and-older winner; Hailey 

Aldrich, 10-11 winner; and Braelyn Tyler, 

9-younger winner; and all of our honorable 

mentions. They join a long list of past 

participants who believe that their mothers 

are truly the best. 

Overall 

Winner 

Angela Murphy-Osborne of 

Courtleigh Park, overall winner, 

is pictured with best mom 

Kathy Murphy.

OVERALL WINNER 

Angela Murphy-Osborne, 

adult 

Courtleigh Park 

Best Mom: Kathy Murphy 

I am one of the most fortunate girls 

in the world. My mom is 86 years old. 

We grew up with limited resources, but 

Mom always put my brother and me 

first. My parents were hardworking, 

blue-collar workers who worked each 

day to put food on the table for us. 

My mom had a stroke five years 

ago, but she has been determined to 

get better for her kids. Although she 

couldn’t hold her head up straight after 

the stroke, she has had therapy for 

more than five years. She’s had a knee 

replacement, car accident and broken 

back, and had COVID-19 within 

the past six months. However, once 

again, she is up and moving, trying 

her best to get well for her children. 

My mom worked in a hospital/clinic 

while I was growing up. I saw my mom 

as a passionate person who believed 

in the rights of all people being treated 

equally, as well as a number of firm 

beliefs and views across many subjects. 

I love my mom, and I am proud 

that she sometimes worked two jobs 

to help me go to college and become 

the resilient, strong woman I am today. 

She raised me to be the best person 

possible and to never stop making 

good choices and dreaming big 

dreams. Because of my mother’s encouragement, 

I became a school principal 

to empower the next generation 

to be strong. Thank you, Mom, for 

stepping up and illustrating my whole 

life what a strong woman should be. 

Happy Mother’s Day! 

12-AND-OLDER WINNER 

Ava Brack, 12 

Windermere Grande 

Best Mom: Stacey Brack 

My mom is the sweetest, most 

loving person I ever met in my life. 

She is here for me no matter what, 

and she makes time for me. In any 

circumstance, she puts me first. 

Whether that day if she is holding in 

Ava Brack of Windermere Grande, 

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

pictured with best mom Stacey Brack. 

tears or pain, she makes sure that I 

am happy and that I have a smile on 

my face. She makes me laugh each 

and every day. My mom is like my 

best friend. I am lucky to have her, 

and I am so thankful she is in my life. 

She helps me with any problems 

I may have or anything I am going 

through. My mom is a hard worker, 

and she does everything she can for 

me. She wants me to do well, and 

she does whatever it takes to help 

me reach my goals. She always does 

her best. She is so pretty and nice, 

and I would do anything for her. 

I love my mom so much, and I am 

so grateful she is here for me. She 

listens to all my problems, and she 

gives the best advice ever. If one day 

I am feeling sad, she knows what to 

do to make me cheer up. She deserves 

the world and so much more. 

My mom is the best mother I could 

ever ask for, and I love her so much. 

10-11 WINNER 

Hailey Aldrich, 10 

Windermere Chase 

Best Mom: Kelly Aldrich 

My mom is there whenever I need 

her — for good and bad. She helps 

me when I need it most. She’s there 

for me through my ups and downs. 

She is sweet, kind and around all the 

time. We play games just the two of 

us. We also joke around here and 

there and everywhere, but we have 

fun every day. 

When I open the door, she welcomes 

me with open arms. We 


Hailey Aldrich of Windermere 

Chase, winner in the 10-11 age group, is 

pictured with best mom Kelly Aldrich. 

snuggle, cuddle and relax together. 

She cheers me on when I dance and 

play soccer. No matter what, if I 

make a mistake or not, she is proud 

of me. My mom is impressed with 

my skills, which makes me proud 

that she is my mom. She fixes my 

mistakes and makes them better than 

they were. 

I love her so much that I never want 

to leave. She is the most awesome 

mother you will ever see. Everything 

she does for me is incredible, so I 

help her out. I wouldn’t want any 

other mother except her. 

9-AND-YOUNGER WINNER 

Braelyn Tyler, 9 

Wesmere 

Best Mom: Robyn Tyler 

I have a great family, and I know 

I am blessed. My mom is the best 

because she is kind, smart and loving. 

My mom is the kindest person 

I know. When I am scared to do 

something, my mom says, “You’ve 

got this,” and it makes me feel ready 

to try something new. My mom is a 

teacher, and I see her help people. 

One day, she took students where 

they needed to go so they would be 

safe. I also see her help her teammates, 

and she is always working 

at home on school things. 

My mom is smart because she 

helps me with my homework, 

and she knows how to do math. 

Sometimes I need help, and she 

helps me study so I can do better. 

She teaches second grade and 


Spring Festival. Plant Sale & Art Stroll 

Saturday, May 13th 9 am 1 pm 2267 Hempel Ave., Gotha, FL 

(near Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Winter Garden & Ocoee) 

Free Admission & Parking Plein air painting 

onsite Florida friendly plant sale Nature themed 

vendor market Artist decorated watering cans 

Raffles Food Truck Live entertainment VIP 

Priority Packages available 

Details at: NehrlingGardens.org 

Thank you to our Presenting Sponsors: 

Foundation for a Healthier West Orange and 

Dusty’s A/C 

And Activity Sponsors: 

Harbinger Capital, Orlando Health, Seaside Bank and 

Fishback Dominick Law



Braelyn Tyler of Wesmere, winner 

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

with best mom Robyn Tyler. 

knows the best ways to help her 

students. 

Another thing is she is loving, because 

when I am sad, she gives me 

my favorite food and plays with me. 

My mom doesn’t care about herself. 

She cares about me, my brother and 

my dad. My mom takes me to fun 

places like trampoline places and 

museums. She sometimes gives me 

money but not a lot. One day, I was 

so nervous about a math test, my 

mom helped me practice and get 

better. 

HONORABLE MENTIONS 

You probably have a mom, and 

you probably think she is pretty cool, 

but I can assure you my mom is the 

best. My mom is the best because 

she is kind and understanding. If you 

ever need a hype man to cheer for 

you no matter what, she is the one to 

call. I always feel happy and loved 

because my mom is there to remind 

me that I am. 

When my friends are over, she is 

awesome, and she knows how to 

start a conversation. She encourages 

me to try my best in everything and to 

try to outdo myself every day. I know 

that I would not be where I am today 

if it wasn’t for her. 

My mom is also the best because 

she is smart and creative. I’m sure that 

your mom can draw something pretty 

for you, but has your mom ever made 

you a Taylor Swift cake for your birthday? 

Although my mom has a hard 

time helping me with my homework 

since it’s not in Spanish, she still tries. 

She changed her whole world so 

I could live in the best environment 

possible, and, in my opinion, that’s 

amazing. 

Rebecca Musso, 12 

Westbrook 

A mother, wife, cancer warrior, 

sister, friend and business owner are 

just a few of the hats our mom wears 

on the daily — kind of like the lipstick 

she makes sure she has on every day 

(even on days she is going into surgery). 

Despite her countless doctor appointments 

and treatments each week, 

she makes sure her family is taken care 

of first. She is the definition of selfless! 

She has shown us what never giving 

up looks like and good cooking 

tastes like, and for that we are forever 

grateful. She is our superhero! 

Mia and Sophie Emmerson, 

adults 

Windermere 

A mother’s sacrifices for her children 

are too great to count. As a 

teenager, I cannot even begin to 

comprehend all that my mother has 

done for me, but I want to thank her 

for a few things that deepen my appreciation 

of her. Thank you, Mom, 

for pushing me to achieve my highest 

potential. Thank you for helping me 

get into my dream school and encouraging 

me through my dual-enrollment 

journey. Thank you for sacrificing 

your time, sleep and resources for 

me. Thank you for all the care and 

love you give. Thank you for being a 

role model for my sister and me. And 

last but not least, thank you for always 

letting me have the last cookie. 

While these examples are only what 

I have seen from my mother, I want to 

thank all mothers (especially mine) for 

their sacrifices for their children, because 

even though we may not always 

show it, we appreciate everything you 

do for us. Happy Mother’s Day! 

Allison Belemjian, 15 

Wesmere 

When it comes to moms, I believe 

my mom is the best. She tells me she 

loves me every day, and she shows 

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me she loves me in many ways. We 

play sports together, and she’s pretty 

fast. I sometimes let her win, so she 

always wants to play. We talk about 

my day and all the fun things I’ve 

done. I can share anything with her. 

She helps me with my homework and 

teaches me new things. She’s pretty 

smart. She is there to cheer me on 

and there when I need her. We study 

together, and we read together, too. 

If I’m sad, we hug together. It always 

puts a smile on her face. She makes 

the best mac ‘n’ cheese, and we sit 

and talk during dinner. 

She learned how to play my video 

game, so she can join in. She’s getting 

better every day. She’s pretty 

good at it for an adult. It’s fun teaching 

her all the tricks I know, but I’m 

much better at it. She needs to practice 

more, but it’s fun to watch her 

play. She walks our dog and lets us 

swim, and we tell jokes together. She 

makes vacations fun, and we enjoy 

going to the park together. 

I love her so much, and I’m glad 

she’s my mom. 

Michael Sachs, 10 

Westover Club 

Mom, you are red like a cardinal, 

representing devotion and love. It is 

said that a cardinal appears when 

angels are near. You are my guardian 

angel on Earth. 

Mom, you are orange like a sunstone. 

This magical stone represents 

joy, happiness, luck and fortune. You 

are my lucky charm. 

Mom, you are yellow like a bright 

morning star, bringing hope to a 

new day, helping me grow and giving 

me life. 

Mom, you are green like a fourleaf 

clover. According to Irish tradition, 

those who find a four-leaf clover 

are destined for good luck. And, I’m 

lucky to have you. 

Mom, you are blue like a moissanite 

gem. This rare gem represents the 

solid, unbreakable love between you 

and me. 

Mom, you are indigo like a beautiful 

amethyst. This popular gemstone 

is a symbol of peace and unity. 

Thank you for being so calm and 

wise throughout my storms. 

Mom, you are violet like a violet 

sapphire gem, which is the most precious 

and valuable thing to me. 

Ethan Alakan, 10 

Willowwood 

To begin with, my mother is very 

helpful. Sometimes, when there is a 

tryout for a school play, my mother 

helps me with it because she was the 

theater girl in her school. She always 

tells me that I can get any character I 

want. The second I hear her encouragement, 

I am motivated. She also 

says, “Believe in yourself, and you 

can do anything!” 

Something else my mother does that 

makes me proud is that she is responsible. 

I have a 12-year-old brother 

named William, and my mother can 

take care of both of us at the same 

time, and we can even go to different 

schools. Crazy, right! 

She calls me “ma’am” when I get 

sassy. I say, “My name is Olivia, thank 

you very much.” 

Another funny thing about my mother 

is she helps out at my school. For the 

Fun Run, she dresses as a character 

from the theme, and when she does, 

she says my name on the school news. 

This year, she was Ranger Whittington. 

On the news, she said, “I’m definitely 

not the mother of a beautiful and wonderful 

girl named Olivia.” 

I love my mother so much, and she 

does so much for me. We have a special 

bond together. Yes, she is sour, 

and she is sweet, but my mother is 

perfect. 

Olivia Gray Whittington, 9 

Lake Down Cove 

My mom cares about me and 

gives me a hug when she sees me. 

This makes me so happy because 

her hugs are warm and feel like soft 

marshmallows. Even when I am at 

my dad’s house, I FaceTime with my 

mom to see how her day was. 

One day, I thought I was going to 

fail a test because I did not think I 

was going to remember what I studied. 

My mom said she believed in 

me, and that made me believe in 





myself. So, I studied harder, and I 

passed my test. 

My mom also shows kindness by 

volunteering at my school and helping 

our neighbors. My mom is smart. 

She helps me with my homework, 

and she worked hard to earn a college 

degree at Bethune-Cookman 

University. My mom is very special 

to me because she buys my favorite 

snacks and cooks my favorite meals. 

She even helps clean my room. 

I want to be just like my amazing 

mom. She cares about me, believes 

in me and is very smart. I am blessed 

to have a mom like her. 

Trinity Moss, 8 

Lake Fischer Estates 

My mom is like a red poppy, humble 

and gives me hope. She’s like a 

beautiful orange sunset that brings 

me joy. She’s like the yellow dahlia 

that brings me light. Her love is like 

a growing tree, bringing me oxygen 

and keeping me alive. Her love is 

like the never-ending blue sky. She is 

like the beautiful night sky. She is like 

a beautiful crystal. 

Laila Donlow, 10 

MetroWest 

I am very blessed to have a special 

person in my life. My mom is 

the best because she is sweet, kind 

and takes care of four kids on her 

own. She has to work nights so she 

can provide for our family, so I don’t 

get to spend a lot of time with her. 

My grandma is with me when Mom 

is at work. When she gets home, 

she helps me with my homework if 

Grandma doesn’t understand it. My 

favorite thing is when she is home 

early, and I can spend time with her. 

She is a lovely mom. When I am 

feeling blue, she helps me become 

a superhero. One day, I was sick, 

and she took me to the hospital. She 

keeps me calm. My favorite thing is 

when we go to the pool, and we go 

on vacations. 

My mom gives me the best hugs 

and makes me feel comfortable and 

happy. One time, I failed a test, and 

she told me that it was an “A” to her 

because I tried my best. She buys 

me new clothes so I don’t have holes 

in my clothes when I go to school. 

She helps me with math and reading 

homework. When I was behind, she 

pushed me, and I caught up. 

I feel my mom is the best because 

she is amazing, and I want to be just 

like her when I grow up. I love her, 

and she is a lot of help. 

Londyn Quarterman, 9 

Advenir at the Oaks 

My mom is the best because she 

loves me, and we all know she cooks 

and cleans. My mom cares about me 

because I’m so kind and loving. I will 

always be there for her, and she will 

always be there for me. If I come home 

and feel sad, my mom cheers me up. If 

I fail a test, my mom helps me correct 

the test because she loves me. 

My mom and I saw a cat outside 

our house. We decided to keep the 

cat. Then, more cats showed up. In 

the end, we had five cats. My mom 

and I saved all the cats that didn’t 

have owners. 

She is the best, kind and loving 

mom. She also takes care of five 

cats. She gives a lot of love. 

Landon Warfel, 9 

Windermere Downs 

I have the best mom, oh yes, indeed. 

She helps me out with whatever 

I need. Through the good and 

the bad, when I’m sad and when I’m 

mad. She fills my glass, indeed, and 

helps me succeed. I would not thrive 

without her by my side. 

I have the best mom. She stays 

calm, even when I can be a bomb. 

Mom, your love never falls short. I 

love your support. I always know everything 

is going to be alright when 

you hold me tight. 

I have the best mom. I love her so 

much. We’ll always be best friends 

through and through. Tough or easy, 

I can always come to you. I can hear 

you when I’m swimming, cheering 

me on. I get out and feel proud because 

you are my mom.

I have the best mom. We can share 

our secrets and laugh all night. Not 

even know the time, it just passes by. 

And, she gives me her hand to hold 

when I might be scared of those latenight 

thunderstorms. 

I have the best mom, and that’s 

a statement. I mean, you can’t compete. 

I never want anyone but her 

because she is my mom, my everything, 

my mom. 

Harper Kathleen Martin, 11 

Windsor Landing 

I want to talk about my stepmother, 

Kimberly Gates. In my opinion, 

Mrs. Kim is the best mother in 

Southwest. She has been there for me 

ever since I was 5. I know we both experience 

different things, but we both 

try to help each other out. Mrs. Kim 

has to work for a while, but she just 

wants to make sure my dad and I are 

taken care of. She makes sure that my 

stepbrothers and I are OK. 

She knows when something is going 

on because her children used 

to go to Thornebrooke Elementary 

School when they were my age. Mrs. 

Kim is nice, but she is that good kind 

of strict. What I mean is, she makes 

sure that I don’t watch too much TV, 

do my work on time, and she doesn’t 

let me use the laptop for playing on 

weekdays. She makes sure that everything 

is OK, too. 

When she stepped into my life, 

it went way better than I expected. 

She cares for me like I’m her own 

child, and she taught me life skills 

such as cleaning the dishes correctly, 

doing my own laundry, and being independent, 

which is important when 

I become an adult. 

Angelyssa Jeffcoat, 11 

Saddlebrook 

My mom is an amazing cook. She 

makes my favorite pasta with Alfredo 

sauce, and she makes it with spicy 

sausage, too. She lets us bake cookies, 

cakes and other pastries. I love 

my mom’s cooking, and it contributes 

to one of the reasons I think my mom 

is the best in Southwest. 

My mom has a sweet, heartwarming 

personality. She cares for and 

loves my sister and me and treats 

us with kindness. She takes us to the 

hospital to make sure we are OK. 

She lets us choose what we want 

and how we want it and is overall 

one of the nicest people on Earth. 

Finally, I believe my mom is the 

best for her fun, kind personality and 

her amazing Alfredo pasta. I am 

lucky to have an amazing mom like 

her and for her to still be with me 

today. She has always cared for my 

sister and me, and I think that she 

could even be the best mom in the 

whole world. 

Johan Milien, 11 

Windsor Landing 

I think my mom is the best mom in 

Southwest because she cares for me, 

even when she is busy or sick. She 

makes sure that I’m in good health. 

And, if not, straight to the doctor’s 

we go! As the older sibling, I happen 

to have more responsibilities than my 

little sister, but my mom does her best 

to make things as fair as possible. 

My mom is always caring for me no 

matter what. One time, when I was 

having a digestive issue, she rushed me 

to the doctor and even got bloodwork 

and an X-ray scheduled and completed 

for my sake. The point is, she cares 

for me and will do whatever it takes to 

heal me or make me feel better. 

She also helps with my schoolwork 

and homework. She makes sure we 

are up to date on all our vaccines 

and gets up to make us breakfast 

and our other meals even when she 

doesn’t have to because she loves us. 

On top of all that, she ensures we’re 

clean and have good hygiene. She 

cleans the house all the time, does 

laundry and keeps the house functioning 

on a daily basis. Our house 

would probably fall apart if she left 

us. Without her, I probably wouldn’t 

be writing this essay at all. 

My mom is the family cook, cleaner, 

doctor and hairdresser. She is 

irreplaceable and important to my 

family. If she and my dad had never 

met, I wouldn’t even exist. 

Kathryn Sharrer, 10 

Windermere Chase 





My mom is super amazing! She’s 

an inspiring and amazing person 

to look up to. Everything I am is because 

of my mom’s love and inspiring 

personality. She has cared for 

and loved me for the 11 years of my 

existence. I have three other siblings 

that she has to take care of and love 

along with me and herself. 

My mom is there for me because, 

when I need help on homework, she 

helps me. When I am not feeling well, 

she takes care of me. When I am 

mad, sad or happy about something, 

she finds a way to cheer me up and 

always be by my side. Her strength 

and love has guided me through 

good and hard times. I just love to see 

her joy and kindness every single day. 

Her personality is caring, helpful 

and loving. She makes sure there is 

something for us to eat every single 

day. When we go on the boat, she 

makes sure everyone is happy before 

she makes sure she is happy and 

having fun. She makes sure everyone 

is having fun and not scared to do 

anything. For example, when we go 

tubing, sometimes she goes on the 

tube with me so that I am not scared. 

Mia Masry, 11 

Balmoral 

My mom’s the best and better 

than the rest. To start off, my mom 

is a teacher, so she’s obviously 

great at that. She’s like a machine 

because she can take care of more 

than 80 kids, including me and my 

family, and definitely including my 

dog, Lola. My mom is the one who 

wakes me up in the morning, and 

she tries to sing that song that she 

thinks motivates me — even though 

it really doesn’t — but it doesn’t 

make me love her any less. She’s 

an amazing person, and I would 

never doubt it. 

One of the things I love about my 

mom is that she supports me in swimming. 

I am a swimmer that has to practice 

six days a week from 5:15-7:15, 

and I only get two skips a month. That 

shows a lot of commitment, I would 

say. She gives me so much support, 

and I love her to the moon and back 

for that. My mom is the best mom, 

and I think I just proved that. Sorry to 

say, but I guess Dad is just going to 

have to roll with being second. 

Luisa Soares, 11 

Windermere Downs 

My mother has been my source of 

happiness from a very young age. 

When I was little and could not speak, 

she understood what I meant, even 

when I was just mouthing what I wanted 

to say or reacting to something. 

My mom is there when I’m sad about 

something. When I want something, 

most of the time I get it, but that is not 

all the time. When I don’t get what I 

want, she will make sure I’m still happy. 

The amount of dedication my mom 

puts toward my education is very 

large. She asks me every day, “How 

was your day at school, Roma?” 

or “What did you learn today?” 

Whenever she gets the chance, she 

helps me with my homework or helps 

me study for a test I have coming up. 

My mom is very busy most of the 

time because of work. She gets limited 

time with my sister and me. But, 

she makes sure we are happy. My 

mom makes sure we have eaten 

and that we feel like we have spent 

enough time with her. I love my mom 

for many reasons, and I cannot list 

all of them. I do not know what I 

would do without my mom. 

Roma Raval, 11 

Lake Down Crest 

Our mothers do everything for us. 

They go to work to put food on the 

table. They make us laugh. They do 

housework, and they worry and care 

about us. Above all, I think my mother 

is the best mom in the world because 

she works very hard every day and 

cares for us whenever she is with us. 

My mom is the best in the world 

because she is a very hard worker. 

Every day, she gets up around 5:30 

a.m. just so she can make my siblings 

and me breakfast and make sure my 

family and I are set for the day. Then, 

she goes to work for about 10 hours. 

I don’t know how she can do all this 

without getting tired, but I know she 

does it so we can have a good childhood. 

Most of the time, she ends up 

being the last one at work. She also 

does a lot of housework. At least 

twice per week, she cleans the whole 

house. No matter where she goes, she 

works very hard to reach her goals. 

She is a caring person. When I 

fractured my arm, she made us go to 

the hospital at 2 a.m. She takes action 

when something is wrong. Also, 

when a picture frame fell and gave 

my brother a deep cut on his head, 

she ran into action. My parents and 

brother went to the hospital while she 

held a towel to my brother’s head. 

She puts everyone else before her. 

Karishma Ramjas, 10 

Windermere 

In my opinion, my mom is the best. 

When I’m sick, she takes good care 

of me. She gives me a lot of medicine. 

She gives me a juicy bowl of 

Ramen noodles. She makes it so 

good. She makes me happy when 

I’m sad. When I was sad, I skipped 

school because I was sick. 

Nathaniel Salmeron Lira, 8 

Falcon Point 

I know my mom cooks, cleans and 

does the laundry, but she does so 

much more. She helps with my homework, 

makes me feel better, and she 

makes the whole family feel spoiled. 

When I go home with a reading test 

with a bad grade, my mom helps 

me with corrections. When we redo 

the reading test, I always get a better 

grade. She makes me feel better 

when I am sad. She makes my favorite 

— secret mac ‘n’ cheese — and 

encourages me to do my best. 

Before I was born, when my 

mom was 9 years old, she broke 

the African record in backstroke in 

South Africa. I think she is the best 

swimmer in the galaxy. 

She spoils our family a lot. She 

buys the most beautiful clothes. 

When we go to church, she dresses 

us like we are famous. She puts on 

makeup, but she doesn’t need it. She 

is pretty just the way she is. She is 

not sour like a lemon, she is sweet 

like candy apples.

My mom is the best in history. I 

think she is one of a kind. I love her, 

and she loves me. I am so lucky that I 

have her. My mom is awesome! 

Charlotte Pederson, 9 

Cross Creek 

Who do you think loves you the 

most? Well, your mom does, of course! 

Your mom loves you way more 

than anyone else ever will. Moms can 

help you and be kind to you in many 

different ways. My mom is the best 

mom in the world because she is super 

kind, loving, smart and more. 

When I have a school play, after 

a long day of work and taking care 

of my brother and me, she helps 

me practice my lines and motivates 

me to be amazing. When I get 

home and I’m having a rough day, 

she helps to cheer me up and motivates 

me to finish the day. She plays 

games with me whenever I’m bored 

and entertains me. She helps me 

with my homework whenever I don’t 

know the answer and checks it. She 

takes my brother and me to different 

places to entertain us. 

My mom takes care of me when 

I don’t feel well. Once, I was sick, 

and she gave me big hugs to make 

me feel better. After school, my mom 

helps me with spelling practice so 

that I do well on the test. She also 

helps me with vocabulary so that 

my mind is sharp. She is there for 

me whenever I have a problem or 

whenever I’m feeling down. My mom 

would jump through fire to get to 

me. She makes me feel special and 

knows when to give gigantic hugs. 

There is no one in the world that I’d 

rather have as a mom. 

Shane Friedman, 9 

Balmoral 

Wonderful, kind, caring and 

brave. Do these characteristics describe 

your mother? Because that 

describes my mother perfectly. My 

mother is smart. When I was a child, 

she worked her way to the top of the 

hotel system and was an incredible 

boss who was kind to her workers. 

She left home early and came back 

late. 

After I grew up a bit, my mother 

quit her job to be with me more but 

hated not being able to provide profit 

for the family, so she decided to go to 

law school. When my mother joined 

law school, I was about 9 or 10. After 

a year or so, she discovered that my 

uncle, her brother, had a heart attack, 

so she asked for our permission 

to leave for a bit to take care of him. 

Why was my mother brave, you 

ask? She left home for a month or 

two so she could take care of her sick 

brother. She was busy and scared 

for her brother, but she managed to 

call us every night to check on us. 

My mother is now a lawyer who 

is working hard to make her mark in 

the law industry by getting lots of experience. 

She is so hardworking, but 

not many people see how incredible 

she is and how hard she works to 

make me, my sisters, my father and 

my pets happy. My mother is incredible. 

She is the best in Southwest! 

Emma Lumsden, 12 

Cross Creek 

My mom is so kind and compassionate. 

She’s selfless and puts her 

family first. She’s fun to be around 

and such a happy, bubbly person. 

There are many other reasons why 

my mom is the best. 

My mom helps me with my schoolwork. 

She makes sure I have no 

missing work, and I stay on top of 

my studies. She asks me if I need 

help with any of my homework or 

class work. Then, she gives me a list 

of things that I need to do to get 

ahead. At the time, I’m annoyed 

that she is bugging me about it, but, 

in the end, I know she is trying to 

help me. 

Another reason my mom is the 

best is because she is so kind. She 

texts me and makes sure I have 

everything I need when I go somewhere. 

She also buys me presents 

for every holiday no matter how 

small it is. She is a teacher, so she 

always plans something fun and 

creative for her students to do. 

All in all, I love my mom with all 

my heart. She is my favorite person 

on Earth. She takes so much time 

out of her day to do nice things 


for other people that she barely 

gets time for herself. Hopefully she 

knows how much I appreciate her. 

Lacey Stroup, 11 

Stone Creek 

My mom is one of the most selfless 

people I have ever known. It does 

not matter the circumstance, she 

will find a way to put other people’s 

needs before hers. She is not only 

a generous and caring mother but a 

strong and capable leader and survivor. 

She has had cancer five times 

and was recently diagnosed a sixth 

time. She is incredibly brave and a 

huge inspiration to my sister and me. 

Even though she is busy taking care 

of the house, cooking, cleaning and 

going to frequent doctor visits, she 

has time to take care of and help 

me with school and sports-related 

activities and issues. For example, I 

have done water polo for the past 

four years, and I don’t think she has 

missed a game. She is just a very 

genuine, caring person who wants 

the best for people. 

Even though her medical journey 

has been a tough one, she has stayed 

strong and dependable through everything. 

Her bravery, caring nature, reliability 

and generosity have been such 

great motivations for me. Her positive 

energy and faith spreads to those 

around her, and she tries her best to 

spread love. I couldn’t have asked 

for a more attentive and understanding 

mom, someone who I can always 

count on, and I know will always be 

there for me. When I have been sick, 

healthy, stressed or confused, she has 

stayed by my side my entire life, and I 

couldn’t ask for a better mom. 

Mya Salvador, 18 

Winter Garden 

The staff of the Southwest Orlando 

Bulletin extends special 

thanks to everyone who participated 

in the 32nd annual 

Best Mom in Southwest Contest. 

Editor’s note: Entries may have been edited for 

grammar, punctuation, length and content. To pay 

tribute to as many “Best Moms” as possible, In 

Your Neighborhood, School News and Southwest 

Sports do not appear in this issue. ª 

DIANA HUSSAIN, M.D. 

7345 W. Sand Lake Rd. Ste 301 

Orlando, FL 32819 

321-204-8237 

www.flwellnessmd.com 

• Mayo Clinic trained and double board-certified M.D. in Interventional 

Pain Medicine and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 

• Voted and featured in Best Doctors in Orlando Magazine 

• Fluent in Spanish 

Services offered: 

• High-quality Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and image-guided 

injections for chronic injuries and arthritis 

• PRP for male and female hair restoration 

• Worker’s compensation, auto accidents and Slip and falls 

• Botox® injections for Migraines and aesthetics 

• Joint and spinal injections under X-ray and ultrasound guidance 

• Evaluation and non-opioid treatment of pain disorders 

• Specialized tests for muscle and nerve problems (EMG/NCS)


n Charities/Fundraisers 

May 13 — Spring Festival, Plant Sale & 

Art Stroll 

Historic Nehrling Gardens, 2267 Hempel Ave., Gotha, hosts 

its Spring Festival, Plant Sale & Art Stroll, including Floridafriendly 

plants for sale, educational talks, children’s activities, 

garden vendors, raffles, local artists painting on-site, a food 

truck and live entertainment. Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Admission 

and parking are free. Proceeds benefit Nehrling Gardens, 

which relies entirely on fundraising to sustain operations. For 

more information, visit nehrlinggardens.org. 

May 20 — Give Kids The World Gala 

Mardi Gras World in New Orleans hosts the Give Kids 

The World Gala, an elegant evening celebrating the 

magic and mystique of one of America’s most vibrant cities, 

including Cajun, Creole and Southern delicacies in 

a grand Southern mansion; soulful jazz; larger-than-life 

props and Mardi Gras floats; an auction; dancing and 

COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD 

more. Reservation names are needed by May 6. Cost: 

$300. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit 

give.gktw.org/event/gala-2023/e462318. 

May 20 — Duck Race 2023 

Island H2O Waterpark, 3230 Inspiration Drive, Kissimmee, 

hosts Pathway Homes of Florida’s Duck Race 2023, including 

up to 6,000 rubber ducks of various sizes racing around 

the park’s lazy river. Time: 9 a.m. Cost: Ducks range from 

$5-$100. Anyone who sponsors $30 worth of ducks receives 

two free admissions to the water park that day. Proceeds benefit 

Pathway Homes of Florida, a nonprofit working to prevent 

and end homelessness. For more information or to sponsor a 

duck, visit www.pathwayhomesflorida.org. 

June 21 — 4.01K Race For Financial 

Fitness 

Harbor Park, 4990 New Broad 

St., Orlando, hosts Junior 

Achievement of Central Florida’s 

eighth annual 4.01K Race for 

Financial Fitness, including financial 

literacy-themed activities 

along the route. Time: 6 p.m. 

Sponsorships are available. For 

more information, email kbrown@ 

jacentralfl.org. To register for the 

race, visit secure.qgiv.com/ 

event/40ra2023. 

compiled by Lisa Sagers 

n Children’s/Teen 

Programs 

May 16 — Growing Up Wild: Spider 

Web Wonders 

Presented as part of the Association of Fish & Wildlife 

Agencies’ Project Wild, the Southwest Library at Dr. Phillips, 

7255 Della Drive, Orlando, hosts Growing Up Wild: Spider 

Web Wonders, during which attendees learn about spiders, 

their webs and how to be safe around spiders. Recommended 

for ages 3-5, and registration is encouraged. Time: 10:30 a.m. 

For more information, call 407-835-7323 or visit ocls.info. 

n Events/Performances 

Through May 31 — World War II And 

West Orange County Exhibit 

The Winter Garden Heritage Museum, 1 N. Main St., Winter 

Garden, hosts World War II and West Orange County, an 

exhibit that depicts how Winter Garden and west Orange 

County contributed to the war effort by supplying military 

personnel and healthful citrus products. The exhibit features 

objects, archived letters and photographs. Time: Tuesdays- 

Saturdays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, visit 

wghf.org. 

May 12 — Handel’s Messiah 

Performance 

The Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the 

Universe, 8300 Vineland Ave., Orlando, hosts a performance 

of George Frederic Handel’s Messiah, featuring the 

Basilica Choir and Orchestra under the direction of William 

Picher. Time: 7:30 p.m. Admission and parking are free. 

For more information, call 407-239-6600, ext. 317; or visit 

maryqueenoftheuniverse.org/concerts. 

May 12, 13 & 14 — When I Grow Up 

Concerts 

St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 W. Apopka- 

Vineland Road, Orlando, hosts St. Luke’s Music and 

Theatre Ministries’ When I Grow Up concerts. Time: Friday 

and Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. Cost: $12- 

$15. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit 

www.st.lukes.org/whenigrowup. 

May 12-Aug. 26 — An Elegy To 

Rosewood Art Exhibition 

The Visiting Exhibition Gallery at Hannibal Square Heritage 

Center, 642 W. New England Ave., Winter Park, hosts 

Crealdé School of Art’s visiting exhibition, An Elegy to 

Rosewood, in commemoration of the 100-year anniversary 

of the Rosewood Massacre. The opening reception 

is May 12 from 7--9 p.m. For more information, visit call 

407-539-2680 or visit hannibalsquareheritagecenter.org. 

May 19 — Mario Kart Night For Adults 

St. Luke’s United Methodist Church’s Nerd Church Ministry 

invites adults 18-older to Mario Kart Night, including games, 

snacks and fellowship, in Building B, Room 202 at 4851

S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando. Child care is provided. 

Registration is requested. Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m. For more 

information or to RSVP, visit st.lukes.org/mario. 

May 24 — State Of The City Address 

The public is invited to Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer’s 2023 

State of the City Address at Harriett’s Orlando Ballet Centre, 

600 N. Lake Formosa Drive, Orlando. Time: 10:30 a.m. For 

those unable to attend, a live and encore presentation is available 

at orlando.gov/soc. 

n Miscellaneous 

May 14 — Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet 

Rosen Centre Orlando, 9840 International Drive, Orlando, 

offers a Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet, including more than 60 

dishes, unlimited champagne and mimosas, and free selfparking. 

Time: 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Cost: Prepaid reservations 

are $58.95, adults; $24.95, children 4-12; free for children 

3-younger. Prices do not include tax and service charge. Walkins 

are based on availability and for an additional charge. 

For more information or to RSVP, call 407-996-3969 or visit 

rosencentre.com/mothersday. 

May 25 — Food Truck Connection 

MetroWest Golf Club, 2100 S. Hiawassee Road, Orlando, 

hosts the MetroWest Food Truck Connection, including 

food, fun and music. Time: fourth Thursday of every 

month from 5:30-8:30 p.m. For more information, visit 

www.metrowestcommunity.com. 

n Networking/Clubs 

Ongoing — Members Wanted 

The West Orange Women seeks females of all ages to join its 

group for fun, friendship and philanthropy. Annual dues are 

$25. For more information, email Alice Bergeson, westorange 

women@gmail.com; or visit www.westorangewomen.com. 

Ongoing — West Orange Republican 

Women, Federated Luncheon 

Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge, 9000 Bay Hill Blvd., 

Orlando, hosts a monthly general meeting/luncheon of the 

West Orange Republican Women, Federated, including stimulating 

speakers. For more information, email info@worwf.org 

or visit worwf.org. 

May 9, 16, 23 & 30 — 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 10, 17, 24 & 31 — Virtual 


The Turnpike Toastmasters Club holds Zoom meetings. Time: 

Wednesdays from noon-1 p.m. For more information or to 


We 

deliver 


Nominate us as the “Best Garden Store” in Orlando 

Website: https://vote.orlandoweekly.com 

If we win we will have a big “Sale-a-bration” 

To submit photos, email lauren@kearneypublishing.com 

Guillermo J. Nazario, D.C. 

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 24 for a chance to appear in our June 15 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. 

2022 Winner


www.facebook.com/ 

southwestorlandobulletin 


register for a virtual meeting, visit 2362.toastmastersclubs. 

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

May 11, 18 & 25 — Virtual Thursday 

Morning Men’s Group 

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

group with the Rev. Jad. Time: Thursdays at 7:45 a.m. via 

Zoom. For more information or to register, call 407-876-4991 

or visit st.lukes.org/adults. 

May 11, 18 & 25 — Virtual 


The Vista Toastmasters Club holds Zoom meetings. Time: 

Thursdays from 7-8:30 p.m. For more information, email 

vistatoastmasters.zoom@gmail.com or visit www.vistatoast 

masters.org. 

n Support Groups 

Ongoing — Hope For Hurting Parents 

Support Group Meetings 

The Parish Life Center at Holy Family Catholic Church, 

5125 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando, hosts Hope 

for Hurting Parents support group meetings for parents, 

grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc., who have children of 

any age who struggle with mental health issues, self-harm, 

eating disorders, substance abuse, gender confusion, suicidal 

thoughts and more. Time: first and third Monday of 

each month from 6-8 p.m. For more information, email 

Beth Denhof, bethdenhof@msn.com, or call her at 407- 

399-5872; or email Kelly Muscaro, kkmuscaro@aol.com, 

or call her at 407-963-5277. For more information, 

including resources and book recommendations, visit 

www.hopeforhurtingparents.com. 

Ongoing — Virtual GriefShare Support 

Group Meetings 

Healing Waters Faith Ministries hosts virtual grief 

support group meetings for anyone hurting after the 

death of a spouse, child, family member, friend or pet. 

Time: Mondays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Cost: Meetings 

are free; workbook is $20 plus shipping. For more 

information, call 407-704-7011. To register, email 

healingwatersfaithministries@gmail.com. 

May 9 & 23 — Mental Health Support 

Group Meetings 

The second floor of Building B at St. Luke’s United Methodist 

Church, 4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando, hosts 

free connection and family support group meetings for 

individuals affected by mental illness. The connection support 

group meets in Room B-204, and families meet in 

Room B-206. The 90-minute meeting is peer-led and helps 

participants connect with each other, learn from each other’s 

experiences, share coping strategies and offer each other 

encouragement and understanding. Time: the second and 

fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. For more information, 

call 407-253-1900, email information@namigo.org or 

visit www.namigo.org. 

May 9 & June 13 — Virtual Support 

Group Meetings For Caregivers 

The Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center sponsors a 

free support group meeting for caregivers in the Suite 281 

Conference Room (next to the south elevators on the second 

floor) at Health Central Hospital, 10000 W. Colonial 

Drive, Ocoee. Time: second Tuesday of each month at 6 

p.m. For more information, call 407-843-1910 or visit 

www.adrccares.org. 

May 16 & June 6 — Virtual Teen Grief 


The Cornerstone Hospice Bereavement Team holds virtual 

teen grief support group meetings for teens 12-17 struggling 

with the loss of a loved one or feeling anxious, upset or confused 

because of the pandemic. Groups are free and open to 

the public. Registration is required. Time: first and third Tuesday 

of each month from 5-6 p.m. For more information or to register, 

call 866-742-6655 or visit www.cornerstonehospice.org. 

May 17 & June 7 — Virtual Teen Talks 


The Cornerstone Hospice Bereavement Team holds virtual 

teen talks support group meetings for youth 12-17. Groups 

are free and open to the public. Registration is required. Time: 

first and third Wednesday of each month from 3:30-4:30 p.m. 

For more information or to register, call 866-742-6655 or visit 

www.cornerstonehospice.org. 

n Volunteers Needed 

Ongoing — Volunteers Needed 

My Brother’s Keeper seeks volunteers — especially adult men (18- 

older) of color — who can serve as positive role models and mentor 

boys and young men of color. For more information, email 

Grace, gdearden@vcifl.org, at Volunteers for Community Impact. 

Contributions to Community Bulletin Board are welcome. Please 

send information six weeks before the event to P.O. Box 851, 

Windermere, FL 34787; call 407-351-1573, option 5; or email 

Lisa@kearneypublishing.com. ª 

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P.O. Box 851 

Windermere, FL 34786

050423_Best Mom in Southwest _DIGITAL EDITION

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