Year in Review 2021
“I’ve been very blessed to play some of the most iconic venues in the world and be on those stages. But the gratitude I have for Orlando for the quality of training and what I was able to do here, I couldn’t be prouder to be from the city.” Michael James Scott, Broadway star and Orlando native “I’ve had times where I’ve sat on a beach or gone horse riding... Read More
Triumphant Return
Adele is one of the most successful female artists in history, and the universal acclaim behind 30, her new album and first in six years, reinforces beyond a doubt the fact that in a changing, fragile and often artificial music industry, raw talent will always find a path to the top. From relationships to confidence, through philanthropy and inclusion, the star’s honesty in terms... Read More
New Home Trends for the New Year
After spending considerably more time at home over the past nearly two years, homeowners have certainly taken note of changes and improvements that they want to see in their residences. Whether a true necessity or simply a convenience, many of today’s newer home trends are a direct result of the pandemic. Orlando Family Magazine spoke to several members of the Greater Orlando... Read More
Best of the Best 2021
It’s hard to say there was anything good to come out of the pandemic, but one of the consequences of spending so much time closer to home is that it made us truly appreciate all the many things Central Florida has to offer. From our favorite spots to grab a bite and the shops we frequent to the unique ways to spend an afternoon or the beauty treatments we couldn’t live without,... Read More
A Familiar Voice
For nearly three decades, renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli has captivated audiences with his soothing yet powerful voice. Throughout his illustrious career, Bocelli has earned six Grammy Award nominations as well as six Latin Grammy Award nods and has sold over 90 million records worldwide. A man of deep compassion, he founded the Andrea Bocelli Foundation (ABF) in 2011, with... Read More
Deck the Halls
Although the pandemic is still lingering over our heads, local holiday celebrations from area communities to the theme parks are in full swing. While everyone is eager to spread some cheer, please check with event organizers directly for specific information on their COVID-19 protocols. NOW THROUGH DEC. 18 Christmas, My Way: A Sinatra Holiday Bash Get into the holiday spirit... Read More
Peak Performers
These seven impressive high school athletes are ready for the spotlight this winter. Plus, take a look at Dariq Whitehead, Montverde Academy boys basketball A senior guard, Whitehead was a key piece of a team that went 24-1 and was crowned the GEICO national champion last year. One of the top recruits in the country because of his elite play on both ends of the floor, the New Jersey... Read More
Taco Time!
It certainly doesn’t have to be Tuesday for us to enjoy a plateful of tacos. In fact, we’d argue that every night is taco night in the Greater Orlando region. That’s because our area is replete with eateries that serve them in a variety of enticing ways and aimed at every palate. And while such a wonderful array of creative offerings makes it hard to narrow down the best,... Read More
Joining the Family Business
When Michael Gandolfini was a young boy, he had his own stash of toys on the set of The Sopranos, and on occasion, would take naps on Tony and Carmela’s bed. So, it’s especially serendipitous that he is now stepping into the shoes of the iconic Tony Soprano. A television role that was made famous by his late father, James, the complex character was a brash and ruthless mobster... Read More
Walt Disney World’s Newest Ambassadors
A new crest honoring the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort adorns Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. The crest completes the castle’s royal, EARidescent makeover, joining gold bunting, sparkling embellishments and other new enhancements leading up to “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” beginning Oct. 1, 2021. (Kent Phillips, photographer) The... Read More
Leading Lady
Photo by Chris Pizzello/AP/Shutterstock (6353184e) When Lady Gaga last graced the big screen in 2018, in the aptly titled A Star is Born, the entertainer known more for her music career at the time proved that she was a force in the film world, as well. Nominated for an Academy Award as Best Actress, she ended up with an Oscar in the category of Best Original Song for the hit “Shallow,”... Read More
On With the Show
A delectable menu has been selected and the perfect song has been chosen for the bride and groom’s first dance as husband and wife. The guest list has been finalized and the family’s feuding uncles have been sat on opposite sides of the ballroom. Finally, the happy couple can focus on enjoying their big day, except for one little problem: In the time of COVID, the process of... Read More
Back on Top
Ben Affleck looks tired. And a little fed up. Usually in a relaxed manner, he’s tense when we meet. And slightly anxious. Today, his gatekeepers are ardently keen to keep idle chat to a minimum, yet his slightly somber expression disguises someone actually emerging from the darkness with considerable optimism. After a bitterly difficult stretch in his personal life, he has... Read More
Their Time to Shine
This high school sports season promises to be more exciting than ever, and these seven student-athletes are likely to be leading the way in their respective sports. DeMario Tolan, Dr. Phillips football A senior transfer from Tohopakaliga, this athletic and instinctual linebacker can make plays all over the field. He hopes to lead his new team to a state championship before continuing... Read More
TOP DENTISTS 2021
With a modern, caring and comprehensive approach, today’s dentists have elevated the patient experience and are doing away with the notion that a trip to their office should be met with fright and anxiety. We polled several area dental professionals and our readers to come up with this year’s Top Dentists list and more than 100 names were chosen. Whether going in for a check-up... Read More
Wayne’s Way
From comedy to acting, singing, dancing and hosting game shows, Wayne Brady has proven he can do it all. Brady has been entertaining audiences for over three decades with no plans of stopping anytime soon. The multi-Emmy winner and Grammy-nominated Brady grew up in Tangelo Park and is a graduate of Dr. Phillips High School. As a youngster, Brady worked as a performer at both Walt... Read More
TOP PHYSICIANS 2021
While the pandemic has been the topic of conversation for the medical world for well over a year now, the fact of the matter is many area doctors have been going above and beyond to treat their patients well before COVID-19 ever became a part of daily lexicon. That is why each year we like to celebrate these selfless individuals for the trusted care they provide and the manner in... Read More
Sibling Revelry
As far as we know, there is no official title for “world’s most athletic family,” but the Kordas would have to be in the running if there were. They are not the first nor the most famous family with multiple generations or siblings reaching the professional ranks, to be sure. But unlike, say, the Mannings in football, the Williams sisters in tennis or the Currys in basketball,... Read More
Dishes that Dazzle
True to its roots, Russell’s on Lake Ivanhoe not only serves exquisite cuisine but also a piece of Central Florida history. While the name belongs to an early settler of Lake Ivanhoe named George Russell, this shore-hugging eatery is brought to us by an Orlando-based restaurant group, VO Hospitality, which is co-owned by Kevin O’Donnell and Philippe Villain. The pineapple featured... Read More
Playing By Her Own Rules
Viola Davis was always an integral part of Denzel Washington’s plan. Having secured the rights to direct August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning plays, Washington knew Davis would bring some of Wilson’s most memorable characters to life. Davis won the 2010 Tony Award for best actress for playing Rose Maxson in the Broadway revival of Wilson’s play Fences, and an... Read More
Beating Burnout
The 2020-2021 school year was challenging for everyone involved. Due to the pandemic, administrators, teachers and students had to quickly revamp school protocols, teaching styles and learning methods. Parents struggled to decide between face-to-face instruction or at-home learning for their children. Even with the school year now over, many parents are still stressing over whether... Read More
