Larger Than Life
Idris Elba has a powerful and visceral screen presence. This is most likely one of the many reasons that Elba is an A-list Hollywood actor who climbed from poverty in an East London canning town. He was named People’s Sexiest Man Alive in 2018, a title that he called “a nice surprise and an ego boost.” But his brilliant career, and easy-going attitude, show that he has not... Read More
Raising the Bar
Meet some of Central Florida’s top-level varsity athletes Sean Stewart, Montverde Academy boys basketball A 6-foot-8 forward, Stewart averaged 20.5 points, 13.6 rebounds and 4.6 blocks last year at Windermere and was part of the U.S. team that won the gold medal at the FIBA World Cup in Spain this past summer. He transferred to Montverde Academy for his senior season before moving... Read More
To Infinity and Beyond
Looking up to contemplate the heavens and all the wonders of the starry skies unites humanity across millennia. For thousands of years, marveling at the infinite mysteries beyond our pale blue dot has challenged the greatest minds of every generation, rewarded awestruck onlookers with dazzling celestial displays and inspired billions of wishes made upon a skyful of stars—and,... Read More
The Best is Yet to Come
Best known as a founding member and lead guitarist for accomplished bands such as Creed and Alter Bridge, as well as lead vocalist and guitarist for his own band, Tremonti, with whom he has released five successful albums, it’s easy to see that Mark Tremonti rocks. Now, with his latest album, a collection of Frank Sinatra cover songs, Tremonti is not only showing a different side... Read More
Class is in Session
As students are in the midst of another exciting school year, it’s time for our annual look at how some of the region’s leading private high schools are paving the way for students to grow in and out of the classroom. We worked directly with area schools to glean information in key areas like average SAT scores, percentage of graduates attending four-year colleges, tuition rates,... Read More
Wise Beyond Their Years
There is no question that our children have faced unprecedented challenges in recent years, from remote school to canceled activities. The fact that they have still managed to thrive is nothing short of remarkable, and many are even finding ways to go above and beyond by volunteering at local charities or starting their own initiatives to help others. Orlando Family Magazine is... Read More
Animal Instincts
When Marcia Gay Harden thinks about joyous family vacations, her mind immediately goes to the time spent in Orlando in the legendary Diagon Alley at Universal Studios. The Tony- and Academy Award-winning actress feels a strong tie to Orlando because of her family’s enormous attachment to “all things Harry Potter.” So much so that her three children cajoled her into going... Read More
Strides in Women’s Health Care
From new contraception options to minimally invasive robotic technology, the world of medicine has made great strides in improving the way health care workers treat women. This demographic of patients requires specialized surgical techniques and tools to ensure that it receives the best quality of care, and according to local experts, there are tons of new innovations being used... Read More
‘Helping Others Help Themselves’
Central Florida is fortunate to have a strong presence of nonprofits and philanthropic organizations that strive to uplift the community in various ways. But even in that crowded landscape, Dr. Phillips Charities manages to stand out with its staying power, unique background and far-reaching impact. Comprised of two distinct divisions—Dr. Phillips Inc. and The Dr. P. Phillips... Read More
Worthy of Attention
Gabby Goodwin, Oviedo girls swimming A sensational distance swimmer, Goodwin was the 4A state champion in the 500 freestyle last year in a school-record time of 4:50.84 and also placed third in the 200 free. She is committed to Florida State. OFM: Has it sunk in that this is your last year of high school and is it a bittersweet feeling? GG: I kind of feel both ways. High school... Read More
Top Dentists 2022
As the pandemic put a renewed focus on one’s overall health and well-being, proper dental health has taken center stage. Sure, regular visits to the dentist will help protect your teeth and gums, but they can also help you avoid other serious health issues, like increased risk for cardiovascular disease or pneumonia. Here in Central Florida, we are lucky to have such a talented... Read More
Scenic South Florida
One of the best places to visit in the state, as the weather begins to cool, is South Florida. While only a few hours away by car, it can often feel like an escape to a tropical paradise. From its pristine beaches with relaxing days to clubs and restaurants with a vivacious nightlife to its deluxe accommodations, South Florida is an ideal vacation destination for Central Floridians.... Read More
An Inspiring Performance
Logan Marmino may be just 12 years old, but after spending a little time talking with the young man you instantly can observe that he is wise beyond his years. He’s spirited and eager to embrace life, seizing opportunities no matter how daunting they appear at first glance. In fact, when he happened upon a worldwide casting call search on Instagram for a 12-year-old amputee... Read More
In This Together
On many different levels, the topic of suicide can be an uncomfortable one to discuss, but having those difficult conversations can help bring about positive change. For those struggling with their mental health to the point where they are thinking of ending their own life, to have folks lending their support and strength can make a world of difference in helping to avoid tragedy. But,... Read More
Top Physicians 2022
It’s easy to marvel at modern medicine and the advancements being made to improve peoples lives. One needs to look no further than the rapid speed at which COVID – 19 vaccines and preventive medicine were developed to try and combat the ongoing pandemic . Here in Central Florida, we are considerably lucky to have so many talented and skilled medical providers... Read More
Come On Down
Forty years of harsh Pennsylvania winters can take a toll on anybody, especially someone like Jim Culp, who doesn’t have much tolerance for blizzards and blustery conditions. His decision to move to Central Florida in 2020 wasn’t entirely based on the weather, of course, but it certainly was one of the main motivating factors. In fact, when he was packing up his home outside... Read More
A Constant Community
Education, in all its forms, is an invaluable asset. When approached correctly, an academic education encourages the curiosity, confidence and critical thinking that help a child blossom into a citizen ready to take on the world. Beyond that, an emotional education that develops soft skills helps parents in need provide for and support their families in ways that give their children... Read More
Above Par
“Golf is deceptively simple and endlessly complicated; it satisfies the soul and frustrates the intellect. It is at the same time rewarding and maddening—and it is without a doubt the greatest game mankind has ever invented.” Those words from the late, great Arnold Palmer ring true for many golfers, no matter if they are on the PGA Tour or those of us who are just trying to... Read More
A Grade Above: The 2022 Public High School Report Card
With the new school year right around the corner, we are taking our annual look at how the area’s public high schools measure up in key areas. Gleaning information from the Florida Department of Education, we were able to gather key data in areas like average SAT scores, graduation rates and senior class sizes. Furthermore, we also had the chance to speak with Dr. Maria Vazquez,... Read More
Close Call
Glenn Close is truly in a class by herself. There are few film, stage and television actors who have portrayed such a wide range of unforgettable characters and consistently done so at such a high level of excellence and critical acclaim. In fact, Close has won more than 70 acting awards over four decades, including three Golden Globes and three Emmys. Her remarkable career serves... Read More
Parenting Guide: Special Needs
Tara Halaychick, the high school guidance counselor at Pace Brantley Preparatory, notes that students often greet their first day at the school—which exclusively enrolls K-12 children who have learning disabilities—with a learned mistrust. “Typically, when they first step foot on campus as a new student, they’ve had an experience before Pace that wasn’t so great, so they... Read More
