A Chip Off the Old Block
Like her famous parents before her, actress Dakota Johnson has made an impression in Hollywood with bold choices like her newest role as a superhero in Madame Web. A multifaceted talent in the world of entertainment, Dakota Johnson has already made a lasting mark on both Hollywood and the global stage—regardless of the fact that she is only in her mid-30s. Born in Austin, Texas,... Read More
All for Love
For a great meal with a side of romance, there are plenty of worthy options across Greater Orlando. With love in the air as Valentine’s Day approaches, couples throughout Central Florida will be celebrating one another in various ways. So, we felt it was only right to highlight some of the area’s finest restaurants that not only serve up amazing food, but also provide the... Read More
Terrific Teachers
Recognizing 14 incredible teachers whose passion for education extends beyond the classroom. Teachers are tasked with one of the most important responsibilities in the future of our society—educating and preparing the next generation of workers, voters and leaders. Often asked to juggle dozens of responsibilities, the life of an educator can be a hectic one. That doesn’t... Read More
The Genuine Article
Jennifer Garner exudes warmth both on screen and off, whether she’s raising her three children or starring in comedic, family-friendly fare like her new movie on Netflix. Amongst the obvious glitz and glamour of Hollywood, Jennifer Garner shines with a distinct warmth that transcends the screen. Known for her congeniality, and a brand of approachable charm that feels both aspirational... Read More
Year in Review 2023
Although January is the perfect time to look forward to the year ahead and to make plans for the future, it’s also fun to reflect back on the previous 12 months and to take stock of what they’ve taught us. That is why Orlando Family Magazine always kicks off a new year by recapping the previous one, and 2023 was surely filled with memorable moments. The following page contain... Read More
A Cause for Concern
Florida has the third-highest occurrences of human trafficking, and Orange County accounts for the second-highest number of child exploitation cases in the state. Advocates share their humanistic efforts and promote education to recognize Human Trafficking Prevention Month. A misconception about trafficking is that abductions occur in public by strangers. While it is not unheard... Read More
‘Tis The Season
With the holiday season fast approaching, it’s time to take a look at the festivities happening around us. From merry musicals and illuminating light displays to cheery parades and holiday markets, there’s so much to do and so much to celebrate. Magical Night of Hope NOW-DEC. 31 Aquanauts to Astronauts While Santa claims the sky, delivering presents to good boys and girls, brave... Read More
Self-Made Man
When Chazz Palminteri was struggling to find good parts as an actor, he created his own by writing A Bronx Tale. More than 30 years later, it continues to resonate with fans both young and old, whether onscreen or onstage. Although it reached cliché status long ago, the old adage “write what you know” remains the No. 1 tip for aspiring playwrights, novelists and screenwriters.... Read More
Homegrown Superman
From his humble beginnings to boy-band superstardom, Nick Carter’s musical talents have helped him amass legions of fans all around the world. Growing up in Tampa, Carter never imagined he would one day be a member of one of the highest-selling boy bands of all time, with over 130 million albums sold. The Backstreet Boys, consisting of Carter and bandmates Howie Dorough, AJ McLean,... Read More
Taking Center Stage
Asa Newell, Montverde Academy boys basketball A 6-foot-9 forward, Newell is ranked as the No. 11 recruit in the country in the class of 2024 by ESPN and is being pursued by a number of premier college programs. Also an excellent student, he is dually enrolled in a community college and will graduate from Montverde with an associate’s degree. OFM: Your senior season is almost... Read More
Tremendous Pride
There’s no doubt that Orlando has a strong connection to the game of soccer. With both a men’s and women’s professional team in town, there’s no shortage of ways for those passionate about the port to share their fandom. And when it comes to the Orlando Pride, whether it’s the diehard Black Swans cheering incessantly for their team or perhaps a young girl sitting in the... Read More
Super Kids
With so much going on in our lives nowadays, it’s easy to see how volunteerism has fallen by seven percentage points since the end of the pandemic, as reported by AmeriCorps. Yet, more than 60.7 million people of all ages and backgrounds continue to volunteer each year—all with the goal of bringing light to the lives of those who desperately need it. These “super kids” have... Read More
Fall-ing in Love
Wedding season has arrived, and the greatest trends of the moment seem to be reminiscent of the Roaring ’20s with extravagant celebrations but with a modern twist. Young couples are bringing their unique generational flair to create the biggest wedding trends of 2023. With COVID restrictions an implementation of the recent past, much like Kristin Wiig in Bridesmaids, people are... Read More
Rising to the Occasion
These standout student-athletes from Central Florida are ready to shine once again during the fall season. JT Bronaugh, Foundation Academy football A senior running back, Bronaugh is coming off a breakout junior season in which he rushed for 1,277 yards and 15 touchdowns on 91 carries to help Foundation post a 6-3 record. Also a star sprinter during track season, he is being... Read More
The Arts Come Alive
A roundup of the live shows, unique exhibits and more arriving in Greater Orlando this fall. The Rite of Spring at Orlando Philharmonic PERFORMING ARTS / LIVE MUSIC / FESTIVALS Central Florida Community Arts CFCArts.com | (407) 937-1800 ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ Oct. 6 Symphonic Disney II This... Read More
Full Speed Ahead
Oscar winner Jamie Lee Curtis has been entertaining film audiences for more than four decades, and her latest movie, Haunted Mansion, shows that she has no plans on slowing down just yet. A horror movie star who doesn’t watch horror movies? Perhaps it is such splicing of non-conformity into a career that has flourished in the mainstream that has seen Jamie Lee Curtis remain a... Read More
Homegrown Star
Matt Lauria may often play a tough guy on TV, but in casual conversation, it only takes a few moments for his sensitive side to rise to the forefront. In fact, the first words out of his mouth, following a very polite greeting, involve an offer to move a phone call over to Zoom, just so his facial expressions can be seen and all of his answers during a wide-ranging interview can... Read More
2023 Top Physicians
As hard as one may try, living a completely healthy lifestyle is an impossible task, and sooner or later, illnesses and injuries are going to happen. Fortunately, when that time comes, the Central Florida region is blessed to be home to many skilled medical providers across a number of specialties. These doctors not only have the drive to push their fields further... Read More
Far From Finished
In the epidemic of mass violence across the nation, it is important to remember and to honor the victims and survivors that have been impacted. It is difficult to hear about, to understand and, most importantly, to ignore. It is common for Americans to personally know someone or somewhere that has been affected by gun violence. Within that horror, there have been increased efforts... Read More
Still in Demand
Even as the real estate market cools off a bit, Central Florida remains a lucrative investment opportunity amidst sunshine and growth. Florida, affectionately known as the “Sunshine State,” not only attracts tourists with its theme parks, sandy beaches and vibrant lifestyle but also entices investors with a thriving real estate market. Boasting a combination of favorable factors,... Read More
In Perfect Harmony
Ever since Gloria Estefan was a young child she claims she “saw” or “knew” things that were going to come to pass at some point in the future. And as time went on and this happened frequently enough, she began to rely more and more on these instinctive feelings whenever they arose. So it should come as no surprise that after first meeting her now-husband Emilio and joining... Read More
