Romantic Rendezvous
CAPA Located at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, this slick 17th floor rooftop steakhouse and bar offers exceptionally crafted cuisine with a distinct Spanish influence. Everything from the ham croquettes to the 32-ounce wagyu steak is expertly prepared, while the signature cocktails and thoughtful wine list also rise to the occasion. RUSSELL’S... Read More
Any Way You Slice It
It’s been several years since we last traversed the area in search of the finest pizza we could find. But what better time than during a pandemic to feast regularly on one of life’s great comfort foods. And while Central Florida often flies under the radar when it comes to high-end pizza, the truth is there are many wonderful options to please your palate whether you like thin... Read More
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
Side Dish
Cantina Catrina, the authentic Mexican restaurant dedicated to celebrating the traditional Mexican holiday of Día de los Muertos or Day of the Dead, will soon be opening in Orlando. This will be the restaurant’s second location in the United States, the other being in Miami. Situated in the Florida Mall, the 220-seat restaurant will offer indoor and outdoor covered-patio dining... 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
A Beloved Neighbor
Rollins College recently unveiled a new sculpture in honor of adored alumnus Fred McFeely Rogers, better known as Mister Rogers. As creator and host of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, Rogers connected with viewers of all ages, sharing messages of kindness, empathy and acceptance. The critically acclaimed program ran from 1968-2001. Rogers’ connection to Rollins College dates... Read More
Spreading Hope
Before joining The Mustard Seed of Central Florida as its executive director in 2013, Kathy Baldwin had heard inspiring stories about how the nonprofit furniture and clothing bank can dramatically change the lives of local families in need. She remembers quite vividly one of the first times she actually got to witness that impact firsthand. It all started with a scream. Baldwin... Read More
Side Dish
Café-Boutique Piano will open in Winter Park’s Hannibal Square in 2022. The family-run restaurant will feature eclectic European cuisine, live piano music and original art for purchase. While the family has previous restaurant experience from their time living in western Russia, the café 1,200-square-foot will be their first U.S. location. After much anticipation, new local... 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
Super Kids
While today’s youths are often thought of as lazy, screen-addicted adolescents, the truth of the matter is there are plenty of kids out in the world doing amazing things that are having a lasting impact in the community. Here, we introduce you to some of Orlando’s finest; children who show tremendous maturity for their age and who have mastered the art of selfless giving. Gavin... 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
‘Bottlenecks on Top of Bottlenecks’
From the garment industry to automotive suppliers, from the exorbitant rise in everything from commercial semiconductors to Thanksgiving dinner, from delays in delivering goods ranging from online gift orders to a new sofa, private citizens and international corporations alike have been at the mercy of disruptions in the supply chain for nearly two years now. And it feels like there’s... 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
Family of the Heart
A family, at its core, is about love. It’s a safe home, unconditional support and a built-in team who will always be there to take care of each other. That’s why Melanie Stimmell, of the supportive, educational and advocacy nonprofit Florida’s Foster/Adoptive Parent Association (FAPA), says that loving an adopted child is no different than loving a biological one. “The... Read More
Making your Pet’s Health a Priority
Every family likely has a calendar filled with activities and appointments, ranging from weekly sports practice to bi-annual dental cleanings. If there’s a pet in the family, they should have a spot on the calendar too. The most important appointment for pets is their annual visit. According to Dr. Robert Hess Jr., owner of Winter Park Veterinary Hospital, pets age much faster... Read More
A Masterpiece in the Making
This past February, the Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) announced Aaron De Groft, Ph.D., as its new director and CEO. An expert in the field, De Groft previously served as the deputy director and chief curator of the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. More recently, he was the director and CEO of the Muscarelle Museum of Art at his alma mater, the College of William & Mary,... Read More
Varying Vaccine Viewpoints
According to data from the American Academy of Pediatrics, more than six million children have tested positive for COVID-19 since the pandemic began. Over one million of those cases occurred this past September, as many schools reopened with in-person classes. While the likelihood of COVID causing severe illness or death is a much lower risk for children than adults, over 500 children... 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
Masters of Glass
The Arribas Brothers name is synonymous with perfection and masterful glass art. The impeccable craftsmanship of each glass piece is unparalleled. For over 50 years, the company has been exclusively situated on Disney property with locations in Orlando, Anaheim, Tokyo, Paris and Shanghai. Rudy Arribas, son of Alfonso, is the president of the Arribas Brothers Company. Born and raised... Read More
A Disney Dream Come True
As far back as he can remember, Don Williams has always loved Disney. His grandmother began calling him “Ducky” after her favorite Disney character, Donald Duck. The nickname stuck, which has never bothered Williams since Donald is his favorite character as well. Williams took a liking to art as a youngster and delighted in drawing Disney characters. His favorite character to... Read More
