D E C E M B E R 2 02 1
ALSO SERVING HORIZON WEST AND WINDERMERE
Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care WindsorAtCelebration.com | 407-917-4331 1370 Celebration Boulevard, Celebration, FL 34747
LIFESTYLE LETTER
Wrapping up 2021 with Changes Coming To 2022!! TIME FLIES WHEN YOU HAVE THIS MUCH FUN TELLING ALL THE BEAUTIFUL STORIES ABOUT THE PEOPLE, OUR COMMUNITY, AND THE HISTORY THAT MAKE WINTER GARDEN, WINDERMERE, AND HORIZON WEST THE BEST PLACE TO LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE™! Although our Fall still feels like Summer sometimes, this month, we highlight the magic of the winter season with holiday celebrations, festive light displays, and gifts galore. Speaking of gifts, we've compiled an all-digital gift guide with the season's hottest gadgets and other goodies that are sure to please everyone on your list - Keep an eye out on Facebook (@WinterGardenLifestyleMagazine) and Instagram (@WGLifestyleMag). We discovered local Tree Farms, where you can spend a day with great food, drink, and activities for the whole family, then cut down (yourself) and bring home your very own beautiful holiday tree! Austin Arthur also sits down with Renaut and Brooke van der Riet and Neal Faul of Axum coffee, and Larry Oskin introduces us to other holiday traditions that take place in December. Finally, if you're entertaining for the holidays,
DECEMBER 2021 PUBLISHER
Anthony S Adams | anthony.adams@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Michelle Malay Sanchez michelle.malaysanchez@lifestylepubs.com PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Carey Adams | carey.adams@lifestylepubs.com COPY EDITOR
Candice Hawks STAFF WRITERS
Larry H. Oskin , Austin Arthur AD DESIGNER
Evan Deuvall L AYO UT DESIGNER
Kirstan Lanier
then check out our very own Michelle Malay Sanchez's family cookie recipes!
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
We also hear from Hilgardt Lamprecht, CFP®, CKA®, on year-end retirement and
Allison Gibeson, Hilgardt Lamprecht
spending strategies that will leave you ready for 2022! As this year comes to a close, we'd like to take this opportunity to express our appre-
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jane Jones, Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream
ciation for you, our Readers. We wouldn't be here without you, and we look forward to another great year ahead. Thank You, Larry H. Oskin (LOskin@MktgSols.com, 703-508-6800) of Art Beautique in Clermont, FL, for this month's cover, we have affectionately called "Dispatches To Santa." We also want to send some love to our Advertising Partners. We support Buying Local! Every one of the businesses and organizations you see advertising in our maga-
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
zine has been vetted by us and has the same involvement and dedication to our
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
community as we do.
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
We also want to thank Michelle Mallay Sanchez, who has been our Editorial Coordinator from
AD MANAGER Chad Jensen
the start. She has decided to start her very own Lifestyle Publications Magazine (City Lifestyle
REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams
Winter Park (https://citylifestyle.com/winterpark) - Thank You Michelle and Good Luck!
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
Lastly, January 2022 will bring some change to the look and feel of Winter Garden Lifestyle as we work with Lifestyle Publications on their company-wide rebrand and update the design and aesthetic of our magazine. We are excited and can't wait for you to see the amazing changes! Thank you for inviting us into your home and sharing your lives with us. Here's to you and
514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO
your family; live boldly, enjoy our community, be involved, and truly Live Your Best Life! Anthony S Adams, Publisher ON THE COVER
ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN
“Dispatches To Santa!”
MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
LARRY H. OSKIN (LOSKIN@MKTGSOLS. COM, 703-508-6800) OF ART BEAUTIQUE IN CLERMONT, FL. 4
Winter Garden Lifestyle | December 2021
CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden
Proverbs 3:5-6 Winter Garden Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Media Partners LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Winter Garden area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Media Partners’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Media Partners does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Winter Garden Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2021
FEATURES 12 Holiday Cookie Recipes You’ll Love It’s that time of year! Enjoy a variety of holiday cookies at home
18 Celebrating Christmas Trees! Cut Your Own For The Happiest Holiday
22 Axum Coffee Renaut and Neal share the Axom Coffee Story
28 Celebrating Holiday Diversity! The holiday season is a great
22 18
reason to celebrate our diversity with family, friends and communities.
12
28
DEPARTMENTS 4
Lifestyle Letter
8
Good Times
9
Around Town
12
Culinary Creations
26 Financial Buzz 28 Faith Reflections 32 Inspired By 34 Lifestyle Calendar
Matthew’s Hope
[]
Neighbors
[] Toy Drive [] Food Banks [] Boss, Mentor Employees [] Emp []
Co-workers
[] Clients, Vendors [] Babysitter []
from Abbo’s
[]
Give a taste of Winter
[] Grandkids
Teachers
[] Troop Leader [] Pet Sitter [] Pet Groomer Hairdresser
[]
[] Manicurist [] Housekeeper Gardener
[]
[] Pool Cleaner [] Postal Carrier Secret Santa Sec
[]
[] Caregiver [] Classmates Charity
[]
[] Club Members [] Handyman Trash Collector
[]
[] Church, Chu Clergy [] Gift Exchange Tutor Gardener Nanny Sports Coach
[]
abbottscustard.com | facebook.com/AbbottsHamlin | @abbottshamlin | 407-395-9573
[] []
Abbott’s Frozen Custard | Hamlin Town Center, 16406 New Independence Pkwy, #120, Winter Garden
Colleagues Day Care Staff Grocery Clerk
[] Treat Yo’Self
GOOD TIMES
Kelly's Homemade Ice Cream Scoop Shop In Windermere! Kelly's Homemade Ice Cream opened up their newest Scoop Shop in October at 14387 Bridgewater Crossing Blvd. in Winderemere, and we have been enjoying their sweet treat all Fall and Winter long! (407-347-9183 @kellyshomemadeicecream).
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Winter Garden Lifestyle | December 2021
AROUND TOWN projects and current craft trends. What’s more, Pinspiration has its own wine/beer bar to help you channel the muse. (Pinspiration.com)
GET CRAFTY AT PINSPIRATION! Pinspiration features a variety of DIY crafts with all materials included! It’s perfect for birthday parties, family activities, paint and sip, community and corporate events, or a unique artsy date
POPSTROKE COMING TO HAMLIN
night experience that includes private access to
PopStroke is family-friendly golf and outdoor din-
Pinspiration’s “Splatter Room,” used exclusively
ing experience featuring two 18-hole putting courses
for splatter painting. Pinspiration guests can cre-
designed by Tiger Woods, a full-service restaurant, an
ate their own idea on the spot or choose from an
expansive variety of craft beer and wine, and so much
array of ever-changing monthly project menus
more. Popstroke will be located in the Cinépolis Plaza
based on the most popular “pinned” social media
facing Lake Hancock (PopStroke.com)
CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden
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Winter Garden Lifestyle | December 2021
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CULINARY CREATIONS
H O L I D AY COOKIE RECIPES YO U ’ L L L OV E ONE OF MY FAVORITE HOLIDAY TRADITIONS AS A CHILD WAS BAKING AND DECORATING HOLIDAY COOKIES WITH MY FAMILY. We made traditional sugar cookies in holiday shapes, chocolate chip with peppermint pieces, peanut butter cookies, and more. I have compiled a list of some of my favorite holiday cookie recipes to share with you and your family, I hope you enjoy making them just as much as eating them! Cheers, and Happy Holidays!
TRADITIONAL SUGAR COOKIES
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY MICHELLE SANCHEZ
INGREDIENTS:
12
+ 3 cups flour
+ 1 cup sugar
+ 1 tsp baking powder
+ 1 egg
+ 1/2 tsp salt
+ 1 tsp vanilla extract
+ 2 sticks of softened butter
+ 1 tbsp milk
DIRECTIONS: Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg, milk, and vanilla. Mix until fully combined. Add in the flour mixture, mix. Flatten dough on a plate, cover, and refrigerate for one hour. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Cover your working area with flour, and roll out dough to 1/4” thick. Use cookie cutters to create holiday shapes, and place on baking sheets. Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes. Let cool and decorate as desired!
Winter Garden Lifestyle | December 2021
C H O C O L AT E C R I N K L E C O O K I E S INGREDIENTS: + 1 1/4 cups dark brown sugar
+ 1/2 cup cocoa powder
+ 1 stick of butter
+ 3/4 tsp salt
+ 1 egg
+ 3/4 tsp baking soda
+ 1 tsp vanilla
+ 1/4 cup powdered sugar
+ 1 1/2 cups flour DIRECTIONS: Mix dark brown sugar and butter until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla, mix. In a separate bowl mix flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda. Combine both mixtures. Chill dough for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Roll dough into quarter size balls, and place on baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Allow cookies to cool, and top with powdered sugar.
COCONUT MACAROONS INGREDIENTS: + 2/3 cup sugar
+ 1/2 tsp salt
+ 2 beaten egg whites
+ 2 2/3 cup shredded coconut
+ 2 tsp vanilla
DIRECTIONS: Whisk sugar, egg whites, vanilla, and salt. Stir shredded coconut. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Scoop out by the tablespoon and form in a pyramid shape. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes.
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden
13
CULINARY CREATIONS (CONTINUED)
SNICKERDOODLE COOKIES INGREDIENTS: + 2 3/4 cup flour
+ 1 cup softened butter
+ 2 tsp cream of tartar
+ 2 1/2 cups sugar
+ 1 tsp baking soda
+ 2 eggs
+ 1/4 tsp salt
+ 1/4 cinnamon
DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Whisk flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix butter and 1 1/2 cups sugar until fluffy. Mix in eggs. In a small bowl, add remaining sugar and cinnamon. Break off 2 tablespoon sized pieces of dough and roll in cinnamon and sugar mixture. Place on baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.
GINGER COOKIES INGREDIENTS: + 2 1/4 cups flour
+ 1/4 tsp salt
+ 2 tsp ground ginger
+ 3/4 cup softened butter
+ 1 tsp baking soda
+ 1 cup sugar
+ 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon
+ 1 egg
+ 1/4 tsp salt
+ 1 tbsp water
+ 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon
+ 1/4 cup molasses
DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix butter and sugar until fluffy. Mix in egg, followed by the water and molasses. Combine all ingredients. Shape dough into quarter sized balls and sprinkle with sugar. Place on baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes.
14
Winter Garden Lifestyle | December 2021
CELEBRATING CH R IST M AS T R EES!
CUT YOUR OWN FOR THE HAPPIEST HOLIDAY
18
Winter Garden Lifestyle | December 2021
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY LARRY H. OSKIN
THE YEAR-END SEASON IS A GREAT REASON TO
In the Northern Hemisphere, the shortest day and lon-
CELEBRATE AND MAKE HOLIDAY TRADITIONS
gest night of the year falls on December 21 or December
WITH YOUR FAMILY. If you celebrate Christmas, you
22 and it’s called the winter solstice. Historically, people
may want to consider cutting and buying your own tree
believed that winter came every year because the Sun
from a local tree farm this year. The total experience
God had become sick and weak. They celebrated the
can become a special bonding event during the holiday
solstice because it meant that the Sun God would begin
season for young families with children. There are plenty
to get well. Evergreen wreaths reminded them that the
of Christmas tree farms here in Central Florida. Make it
green plants would grow again when the Sun God was
a fun and memorable experience by planning the day.
strong and summer would return.
Bring your cameras! SANTA’S CHRISTMAS TREE FOREST: CHRISTMAS HISTORY & TRADITIONS:
With 17 acres of Christmas trees to select from and
Long before the advent of Christianity plants and trees
located in nearby Eustis, Florida, they offer you the
that remained green all year had a special meaning for
opportunity to casually cut your own trees. Together with
people in the winter. The history of Christmas trees goes
their own homegrown tree assortment, they offer Sand
back to the symbolic use of evergreens for the Christmas
Pines, Red Cedars, American Blue Cypress, Black Hills
holiday as used in ancient Egypt and Rome. The tradition
Spruce, Fir, Pine, Douglas, Scotch, Balsam, and Arizona
of cutting your own Christmas tree started in Germany
Cypress trees. They have a pre-cut area with over 600
where they lit them with candles. Ancient people hung
beautiful trees and wreaths on display. The most difficult
evergreen boughs and wreaths over their doors and win-
part is to select the one that will be perfect for you.
dows. Some believed that evergreens would keep away
Make Christmas Memories! To make your Christmas
witches, ghosts, evil spirits, and illness. The Christmas tree
more memorable, they offer a complete experience with
tradition was brought to America in the 1800s. Christmas
horse rides, hay rides, a petting zoo, refreshments, and
trees are now grown in all 50 states.
entertainment throughout the year-end holiday season.
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden
19
CELERATING (CONTINUED)
They will be very happy to share a saw to help you
as well as specialty drinks for adults and children
cut, trim, net, and load your tree onto your car. They
to enjoy. There are also three kinds of homemade
have a special processing area, where your tree will
street tacos, hamburgers, hot dogs, ice cream, lem-
be shaken out to rid it of dead needles and critters.
onade and their unique Merry Berry Float made with
They typically sell about 5,000 trees each year.
Sparkling Red Rose, Raspberry sherbet, preserves
Now open seven days and nights a week through
and berries. They have a Gift Shop to help you take
December 20, this Eustis Christmas tree farm has
home some great holiday tree and home decorations.
become one of the most popular in Florida. Owned by Jodi and Tom Utsman, this family farm has been
REASONS TO CUT YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS TREE:
in business since 1989. They are both retired Florida
+ Family Bonding Experience: Going to a Christmas
teachers. Jodi’s parents started the tree farm on
tree farm will get your entire family outdoors to
their 35-acre property.
safely have fun. + Affordable Options: It’s usually cheaper to cut your
SANTA’S ENTERTAINMENT:
own tree!
Some rides and entertainment are free and some
+ Celebrate Christmas Season Spirit! Select a tree
have a cost at Santa’s Christmas Tree Forest. Their
farm that offers extra decorations, activities, treats
free petting farm area includes horses, donkeys,
and entertainment.
a cow, pig, chickens, ducks, rabbits, a turkey, and
+ Longer Lasting Trees: Since your fresh tree was
goats. A fun family hayride will take you out onto the
alive and growing until you cut it, your tree will
farm grounds as you look through rows of trees. They
usually last longer.
even have a barrel train as well as adult and children’s
Merry Always! Santa’s Christmas Tree Forest
trikes to ride on the property. Your kids will enjoy the
offers year-round events. Besides their Christmas
zip line, the huge outdoor bounce pillow, a big pine
season celebration, they have an Easter Egg Hunt
wood maze, the double covert slide, a sand hill, and
in the spring and a Ladybug Festival in the summer.
tire mountain. The Shark Tooth Sand Dig offers your
Every fall, Santa’s Christmas Tree Forest has a huge
children the chance to dig for shark teeth. They do
Pumpkin Patch Festival with thousands of pumpkins.
offer extra activities like holiday arts and crafts and a scavenger hunt hunt as well as live music, acts
TIPS TO HELP PRESERVE YOUR TREE:
and entertainment for kids and the family. You may
Place the trunk end into fresh water within your
be surprised to experience snowfall, from their snow
tree stand. Keep the water level above the cut. Locate
machine. There are special photo spots to pose for
your tree well away from sources of heat, such as fire-
pictures. Santa, his elves and helpers will be ready
places, heater vents, space heaters and stoves. Keep
to pose with your family and to help you. They offer
it well hydrated by regularly watering it.
extra select night time lights, entertainment, a happy hour at the bar, and activities.
Santa’s Christmas Tree Forest is located at 35317 Huff Road in Eustis, FL 32736. Visit their website to
CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY REFRESHMENTS & EXTRAS: For thirsty elves, there is a bar with beer, wine, hot chocolate, sweet and salty Kettle Korn popcorn,
20
Winter Garden Lifestyle | December 2021
review hours, entertainment, special weekly events and ticket prices: SantasChristmasTreeForest.com, Call: 352-357-9863 or email: JodiTheElf@GMail.com
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TI
TIN AR
TH
U
AR
AU S
R
AXUM COFFEE
C
LE
Neal Faul
22
Winter Garden Lifestyle | December 2021
lively, lighthearted, and fun personality; when discussing his exclusive roaster role, he proclaimed, “Currently, I am the only roaster. Let’s hope I don’t get run over by a bus.” Humor aside, he is also a very serious person who has become an expert in his trades, both in music and roasting. As one may imagine, roasting is a sort of art as well as a science that requires love and expertise. As a result, Neal has acquired many Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) roasting certifications IT IS AN UNWRITTEN RULE THAT IF YOU LOVE WINTER
that have only helped enhance his expert knowledge on roast-
GARDEN, YOU LOVE AXUM COFFEE. Most of us feel this way
ing, which began as a hobby.
anyhow. It is “our little coffee shop” that has been with us for over
“I have always been attracted to the intersection of art and
a decade. When you walk into Axum, you smell the wonderful fra-
science that is involved in roasting. For the most part, you can
grances of freshly roasted and brewed coffee beans and get an
develop a foundational understanding of roasting from reading
instant feeling of welcome and comfort from the kind staff and the
books, watching videos and following other roasters’ profiles. You
family-friendly atmosphere. However, who is behind this shop in our
can be a fairly competent roaster, but there is an intuition and art
town? I spoke with two of the key people when trying to learn a little
involved with fine-tuning a roast in order to help the coffee speak
more about this gem in our community. Although they have an excel-
for itself,” said Neal.
lent team of many great people, including wonderful baristas who always greet us with a warm smile and a friendly hello, my goal was to turn to the person who founded the operation and the person who roasts the beans that fuel the operation.
the name of an impoverished city in Ethiopia, and after an inspiring trip to the city, Renaut and Brooke van der Riet (soon-to-be co-founders of Axum Coffee) knew what they must name their long-envisioned coffee shop. After its opening, Axum quickly gained success and in 2015, they decided the next step was
are appropriately from Ethiopia. Between their online sales and brick and mortar locations, they are roasting their beans, which start green and raw, about three
In 2010 Axum opened its doors with a name that was, up until that point, very unfamiliar to most of us all. It is
Their flagship varietal roast at Axum is their Sidamo beans, which
times per week at the Plant Street Market, where you can watch it
“I have always been attracted to the intersection of art and science that is involved in roasting. For the most part, you can develop a foundational understanding of roasting from reading books, watching videos and following other roasters’ profiles.”
to open their own roastery near the coffee shop in Downtown Winter Garden at the new Plant Street Market. This is where Neal Faul comes in. He is the head roaster of Axum Roastery and is the genius behind the delicious coffee we enjoy on a regular
Austin Arthur & Family
basis in Downtown Winter Garden and beyond. Neal was born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa and lived his days there until he finished high school, which is when he decided to move to Sydney, Australia. The purpose for his move was to pursue music in college. This is the career path he followed and still works in today as a music educator and performer. When he is not teaching or performing, he is at the Axum Roastery, brewing those wonderful coffee beans we all appreciate. In addition to being the sole roaster, he is also part of the Axum leadership team where he has a voice in the direction of the company. Neal is a
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden
23
AXUM (CONTINUED)
initiatives that are helping to make the world a better place. In part, these include organizations that help in the fight toward abolishing human trafficking, bringing clean water to places in the world that are without, helping abandoned and at-risk children, local to international food banks, local mentoring programs here in
“ E ach cof fe e is ever so slightly dif ferent , base d on re gion , varietal, farm , etc . , so you really have to treat ever y single batch of cof fe e as its own thing .”
our community and other similar initiatives. Upon my questioning, Pastor Renaut explained that the lack of emphasis on this mission-based giving was intentional. “We have always wanted people to come to Axum because we have the best coffee and the best service. This is why we have not placed a focus on the missional aspect of the company in the past. We want people to love Axum and then have the wonderful
all occur live. Then, when Axum serves you their coffee, the beans
surprise and delight when they learn about our profits. We are now
are brewed within 14 days of being roasted, a very high standard that
stepping into a season where we feel we have earned that trust
creates an exceptionally fresh and high-quality result.
from the community, and we will begin the process of sharing our
Neal explained to me a bit of the art regarding roasting, “Each cof-
mission more openly,” said the pastor.
fee is ever so slightly different, based on region, varietal, farm, etc., so
I believe this sort of merit-based philosophy of earning the
you really have to treat every single batch of coffee as its own thing.
community’s support by providing a “good product, good service,
It wants to be something, and it is your job as a roaster to figure out
at a good price” is very telling. Rather than exploiting their giving
what that is and let it shine through.”
to garner support, they have been giving quietly. I am excited to
Ever since Axum has opened its doors here in Winter Garden,
see Axum grow and begin to tell us more of all their good works,
there have always been whispers about what they do with the pro-
so we as a people can also be motivated by them, emulate them,
fits the coffee company generates. Many times, I have personally
and support them.
been told that the coffee shop donates all of its profits to charitable
Between the great work done by Neal as their incredible roaster
organizations and initiatives. However, upon a basic review of the
and the merit-based philosophy leadership by the giving pastor and
for-profit company’s literature online and otherwise, there is no solid
his wife Brooke, this coffee shop is worthy of being known as “Winter
mention of such a concept. Although their literature speaks in great
Garden’s Coffee Shop.” Although their reach is worldwide and their
pros about humanity and changing the world, there is little to no
shops are increasing in number, a little coffee shop opened here in
mention readily available about their initiatives and giving away of
our beautiful city to make a significant impact on the world.
profits, if they exist. After discussing with Neal the great roasting and brewing the shop delivers, I was still left wondering about the subject of giving and profit… were the rumors true? Or was the for-profit coffee shop just like any other, albeit with a global outreach style to the branding? Finally, I knew who I had to reach out to, the source itself, Axum co-founder and business owner, Pastor Renaut van der Riet of Mosaic Church in Winter Garden. We jumped on a brief phone call, and he explained to me that he and his wife Brooke do indeed give away all of their profits which they would otherwise receive as business owners. The rumors were true. Axum coffee is on a mission to make a change in the world and they are making good progress. All the business owner profits go to various local, national, and international organizations and
24
Winter Garden Lifestyle | December 2021
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3 MAXIMIZERS TO HELP YOU MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR WEALTH IN RETIREMENT
ARTICLE HILGARDT LAMPRECHT, CFP®, CKA®
FOR DECADES, YOU (HOPEFULLY) SET ASIDE MONEY FOR RETIREMENT, INVESTED IT AND WATCHED IT GROW WHILE DREAMING OF THE DAY WHEN YOU COULD BID FAREWELL TO THE WORKING WORLD AND EAGERLY GREET A MORE LEISURELY EXISTENCE. Accumulating money for retirement is one thing; getting the most out of that money is another. You want to be sure you can maximize the wealth you have amassed so that your dreams of retirement — whatever they might be, are realized. Let’s take a look at three retirement maximizers that can help you do that: MAKE A PLAN Retirement represents a substantial life-transition event. It’s important to know what your vision is for this next adventure and to make sure you have the money to accomplish that vision. To do that, you need a plan. I remember planning for a couple who owned a very successful company, actually sharing the CEO office. When they sold their company, we got together, thinking through their dreams for the future and how they could combine a few of their passions. They loved traveling overseas, experiencing new cultures and wanted to make a positive impact for the rest of their lives. They wanted to take others with them on this journey. So, they transitioned to becoming international mission pastors at their church, taking on an average 15 to 20 groups on international mission trips. My happiest clients are those who have refocused or redefined their life dreams. Sometimes that process takes a little doing. As we sit together, I try to draw out of people what their vision is for the future. This is important because when you have a clear vision of what you want from retirement, you can establish priorities and set 26
Winter Garden Lifestyle | December 2021
SMART INSIGHTS FROM FINANCIAL PROFESSIONALS
FINANCIAL BUZZ
Hilgardt Lamprecht
Janice and Hilgardt Lamprecht
goals to help you get there. Once you have done that, you can start
ones while those moves still make a difference.
working on the best strategies to make your vision and your financial
For example, you should understand that certain
situation mesh. Pragmatic planning includes how you allocate cash
taxes, such as capital gains tax and estate tax, are
flow on a monthly basis, so it is important that you and your spouse
in a sense voluntary. If you are proactive, you can
are in agreement. Your plan also should include a “dream list” — a
plan for them. Finally, if you are like many peo-
one to three-year bucket list of things you want to do right away.
ple, you may have all of your retirement savings
Finally, there is your legacy, the long-term vision of the impact you
— or at least a large chunk of it — in traditional
want to have on your family and your community.
IRAs. When you begin to withdraw that money in retirement, you must pay taxes on it. But with
REDUCE YOUR RISK
some proactive planning, you can begin to con-
One major question people ponder when they think about retire-
vert traditional IRAs to a Roth IRA. Your interest
ment is: Will my money last the rest of my lifetime? It is an excellent
in a Roth grows tax-free, and you pay no taxes
question, especially with life expectancy growing longer. It is import-
on the money when you withdraw it in retirement.
ant to know where your finances stand as of today and to explore
Be warned: You will pay taxes as you make the
how you can help reduce risk in your portfolio, especially as you get
conversion, so you need to be careful in planning
closer to retirement. Many people believe they are not in control of
how much to move over each year based on what
risk. They think they simply must take whatever the stock market
else is happening with your taxes. We recom-
dishes out. But there are ways to bring more predictability to your
mend consulting with a CPA or tax professional
financial situation. First, you should understand what your risk toler-
before making any purchasing decisions. When
ance is, because the way forward starts there. Some people are not
you make your plan, reduce your risk and take a
bothered by risk, while others get anxious. Financial professionals
proactive approach to taxes, you will find yourself
often use technology to help determine a person’s risk tolerance.
spending more time enjoying retirement and
Once you have done that, you can put strategies into play, such as a
less time worrying about what the future holds.
detailed cash flow spend-down plan. You can explore financial tools
Of course, doing all of that can get complicated.
designed to help mitigate risk, such as principal protection, income
You may want to consider enlisting the help of a
protection or both. You also want to plan for an expense many peo-
financial professional, preferably a CERTIFIED
ple do not like to think about but is among the biggest risks your
FINANCIAL PLANNER™. You should also con-
portfolio faces — the cost of health care and long-term care.
sider an Investment Adviser Representative, who is held to a fiduciary duty of care, which means
BE PROACTIVE ABOUT TAX SAVINGS
he or she is legally required to work in your best
Even in retirement, you will pay taxes. The good news is there are
interests when providing investment advice. That
ways to help reduce those taxes, but to accomplish that, you may need
person should be able to assist you in putting
to change your mindset on the subject. Unfortunately, many people
these wealth maximizers into action, helping you
have a tax-preparer mindset. That’s problematic, because tax prepar-
achieve a more confident and carefree retirement
ers do not think about taxes until April 15 is bearing down. By then, it is
just like you dreamed about.
too late to do much about what you owe. The trick for you is to shift to a
The LifeWealth Group is an independent
tax-planner mindset. A tax planner has the entire year to think through
financial services firm that utilizes a variety of
tax-saving strategies, avoiding the wrong moves and making the right
investment and insurance products. CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden
27
FAITH REFLECTIONS ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY LARRY OSKIN
THE YEAR-END HOLIDAY SEASON IS A GREAT REASON TO CELEBRATE OUR DIVERSITY WITH FAMILY, FRIENDS AND OUR COMMUNITIES.
HANUKKAH HANUKKAH IS A JEWISH HOLIDAY THAT COMMEMORATES THE OVERTHROW OF HELLENISTIC KING ANTIOCHUS IV EPIPHANES WHO OUTLAWED
JEWISH
PRACTICE
AND
DEFILED
THE JEWISH TEMPLE IN JERUSALEM. A small Maccabean army of Jews rebelled against this religious persecution. They defeated the Antiochus' troops after a three-year war. They regained control of the Temple, removed the symbols of Zeus and built a new altar so they could once again keep with Jewish law. The Hanukkah menorah candles represent the miraculous burning of that temple’s lantern for eight nights, even though there was only enough oil to burn one night. On each of the successive eight nights, another candle is added to the menorah after sundown. Hanukkah begins on the 25th day of Kislev, a month in the Hebrew calendar. This eight-day Hanukkah festival begins across the globe when Jews gather to light menorahs in their homes, at synagogues and at giant community events. Many cities host Hanukkah lighting ceremonies along with Christmas in town squares. The public ceremonies are accompanied by songs, entertainment, food and carnivals. The National Menorah in Washington DC is ceremoniously lit up where the president hosts an annual Hanukkah party at the White House. While, gift giving was not historically part of Hanukkah, many young families give their children a different gift for each of the 8 nights. The most popular Hanukkah foods include potato latkes, brisket, chicken, kugel, matzo ball soup, rugelach, sufganiyot jelly-filled doughnuts, challah and wine.
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Winter Garden Lifestyle | December 2021
celebrating holiday diversity
D I WA L I Diwali is a Festival of Lights celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists. Diwali honors Rama-Chandra, the seventh avatar, an incarnation of the Vishnu God. It is believed that Rama returned to his people on this day after 14 years of exile after he won a battle against King Ravana and his evil demons. Followers light up their houses to celebrate his victory over evil. There are celebratory worship services Lakshmi, the Goddess of Happiness and Good Fortune is an essential part of worship during this celebration as she symbolizes wealth, happiness and prosperity. Each of the five Diwali days has a different focus. Diwali lasts from the 13th day of the dark half of the lunar month Ashvina to the second day of the light half of the lunar month Karttika. The first day is celebrated as a shopping day. Many look to buy jewelry, while some buy traditional sari outfits, Hindu statues and incense sticks. The second day is used to decorate the homes. The third day is celebrated with candles indoors as well as outdoor lights with nighttime fireworks. Diwali is celebrated with a gift exchange. Everyone wears very colorful clothing. Many cities, schools, community associations and corporate businesses celebrate Diwali as it is a public holiday in parts of India. The business community considers it an opportune time to start new ventures. American Diwali communities organize festivals and firework displays. Some states such as Utah have proclaimed Diwali as one of their annual state festivals. Diwali feasts are celebrated with cauliflower pakora or cauliflower fritters, pumpkin halwa,
CHRISTMAS
besan ladoo, an assortment of sweet treats, paneer makhani and other savory treats with chai teas.
Christmas is a sacred religious holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus. The English term ‘Christmas’ means “Mass on Christ's Day”. The earlier term Yule was derived from the Germanic jōl or the Anglo-Saxon geōl, which referred to the feast of the winter solstice. The Romans are credited for inventing this holiday. The first recorded Christmas was celebrated by Roman Emperor Constantine on December 25, 336 AD. The real birth date of Jesus is not stated in any historical reference. Christmas Day was chosen to coincide with the winter solstice. The tradition of decorating an evergreen Christmas tree goes back to 16th-century Germany. These trees represented the forbidden fruit from Genesis in the Bible. Ornaments were made of glass. Today, Christmas ornaments can be shared to celebrate, honor and memorialize anything you want! Families travel to be together for this holiday to celebrate Christmas traditions with a dinner feast. They enjoy sitting around the Christmas tree, singing songs and telling stories. Many make Christmas cookies and sweet treats to eat with hot chocolate. Christmas tree lighting ceremonies and parades are held in many cities. Many families host parties, take a hike, go ice skating and build snowmen on Christmas. Some dress up like Santa and the elves, while dressing up pets in holiday costumes. Italian, Greek, Hispanic and others have their favorite foods, while the most American Christmas holiday foods include turkeys, hams, carrots, roast or mashed potatoes, stuffing, parsnips, brussels sprouts and Christmas pudding. Gift giving at Christmas has become a Christian tradition and symbolic of the tributes made to the baby Jesus by the Three Wise Men
CONTINUED >
after his birth during the story of the Nativity. CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden
29
LOCAL’S CHOICE (CONTINUED)
K WA N Z A A Kwanzaa is an African-American celebration of heritage, life, principles and traditions that are observed for one week from December 26 to January 1. Dr. Karenga introduced this American festival in 1966 as a ritual festival to welcome the first harvests. He openly created Kwanzaa in response to the overt commercialism of Christmas. Its name comes from the Swahili phrase “Matunda ya kwanza,” which means “first fruits”. Each day a candle is lit to honor the principle of that day, while reciting the writings of great Black thinkers and writers, reading original poetry, listening to African drums and sharing a meal of African-inspired foods. Families come together to share a Kwanzaa feast to honor their ancestors, affirm the bonds between them and to celebrate their AfricanAmerican culture. Some of the traditional foods include catfish, collards, macaroni and cheese, jerk chicken, gumbo, accras or Caribbean fritters and feijoada. The Kwanzaa feast table is decorated on New Year’s Eve with the seven symbols of Kwanzaa representing Mishumaa Sabaa, the Kinara candle holder, Kikombe cha Umoja Unity Cup, Mkeka placemat, Mazao, Muhindi and Zawadi or gifts. The decorations and clothing are represented with the colors of red for the struggle, green for the future and black for the people.
Y E A R E N D H O L I D AY S Year-End Holidays: There are dozens of other year-end religious and cultural holiday celebrations. Some of these include Three Kings Day, Boxing Day, Winter Solstice, Saint Nicholas Day, Saint Lucia Day, Mardi Gras and the Seinfeld invented – Festivus for the rest of us. Happy Holidays!
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Winter Garden Lifestyle | December 2021
We Serve Those Who Serve Our community would not exist without the sacrifices and service of the heroes all around us.
Teachers, Firefighters, Military/Veterans, Medical, Police and First Responders and their children qualify for substantial rebates at closing. No matter where you are or what you're doing, know we are thinking of you over the holidays and praying for your safety.
Happy Holidays! www.HeroesHousing.com
We share a common mission
Keep community strong Paul Fedynich and Valerie Fairchild, Realtors Central Florida Heroes Housing Affiliates The ViP Home Team @ The Real Estate Collection C: 407.744.1681 - www.TheViPHome.Team
Get up to 3 competing cash offers on your home today Go to www.InstantOfferFL.com
Contact us today! Scarlett Roger, NMLS 1877247 Branch Manager Angel Oak Home Loans C: 813.360.2806 - www.AngelOakHomeLoans.com
Angel Oak Home Loans LLC NMLS# 685842, For licensing information, go to: (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org), Licensed in AL, AZ #0927070, Licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act , CO, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA #32379, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MS, NV, NH, Licensed by the N.J. Department of Banking and Insurance, NM, NC, OH, OK, OR, PA, Rhode Island Licensed Lender, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA dba AOHL LLC, WI
INSPIRED BY
Gratefully
ARTICLE ALLISON GIBESON PHOTOGRAPHY JANIE JONES
GIVING AWAY AFTER A SUCCESSFUL CAMPAIGN LAST YEAR, LIFESTYLE PUBLICATIONS IS GIVING $300,000 TO RECIPIENTS IN NEED THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON AND BEYOND... AND WE NEED YOUR HELP!
ABOUT SIX YEARS AGO ANNA SAROL, THE DAUGHTER OF A SINGLE MOTHER, WAS PARALYZED IN A GYMNASTICS ACCIDENT WHEN SHE WAS A FRESHMAN IN HIGH SCHOOL, BUT UNTIL LAST YEAR SHE DID NOT HAVE A STAIRLIFT IN HER HOME. The stairlift was made possible when Lifestyle Publications gave her family $10,000. “I watched my community come together to help me get this equipment to my house, and words can’t explain how appreciative my
“I watched my community come together to help me get this equipment to my house, and words can’t explain how appreciative my family and I are. —Anna Sarol
family and I are,” Anna says. The money for Anna’s stairlift was part of a giveaway campaign from the company during the 2020 Christmas season that benefited more than 80 recipients across the country with a final distribution of $250,000 throughout the year. When the company opened nominations, they were flooded with submissions. Community leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you nominated people that were in need of assistance. As the eyes and ears of the community, these readers were able to help identify people who might have
Anna Sarol
otherwise gone unnoticed or unrecognized. One such nominee was Kathy*, an aunt who is raising her three young relatives. The children came from an abusive situation, and Kathy, a single guardian, works tirelessly to provide for them. Nevertheless, the family was already living in poverty despite her working seven days a week when Kathy lost her job during the pandemic. She resorted to selling tamales to help pay the rent. When a case manager with a Big Brothers Big Sisters foster youth mentoring program heard about Lifestyle’s campaign and call for nominations, she quickly thought of Kathy. “When I shared the news that Kathy was selected and would be receiving $3,000, she cried, screamed, and was in disbelief,” the case manager said. “She immediately wanted to give back to me and the donor by providing endless tamales. This funding allowed the children to have a small Christmas tree for the first time ever. Kathy was able to pay her rent and utilities for three months, and the children were able to experience a holiday season in peace without financial stressors.” In yet another case, Emily* who worked as a janitor at a school, was a recipient and was struggling to afford simply buying groceries for her children. Before the ongoing difficulties of the pandemic even started, a tornado destroyed the school she worked at just a couple weeks before the initial shutdown in March 2020 which resulted in a loss of income for her. Emily was incredibly surprised and grateful to receive assistance from the giveaway. *Names changed for privacy
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Winter Garden Lifestyle | December 2021
WE NEED YOUR HELP TO GIVE AWAY $3OO,OOO This year the company will have nominations for the giveaway open from December 1-15, 2021. To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. The leaders of Lifestyle Publications believe God has blessed them with their company’s continued success, so they in turn wish to be a blessing and encouragement to others as they increase the amount of this year’s giveaway to those in need to $300,000 for the year.
Nominate HERE! Follow @citylifestyle on Instagram
CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden
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DECEMBER
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
3
Horse Drawn Carriage Tours December
LIGHT UP WINTER GARDEN
minutes. Located at Winter Garden
4, 10, 11, 17-19, 22-24, and 26-30 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tour experience every 20
SANTA’S COMIN’ TO HAMLIN
300 W Plant Street
Downtown Pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview
Welcome the holiday season with this
Ave. Winter Garden, FL 34787. $85/per
SATURDAY| 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
annual event to kick off 38 days of Tis
tour. Carriage Capacity includes 4 Adults
Hamlin is bringing Santa back! He’s
the Season. The lighting will take place at
OR 2 Adults and 3 Minor Children
ready to find out if you’ve been bad or
6:15 pm at City Hall followed by various activities for all to enjoy.
4
34
11 14111 Shoreside Way | Hamlin
good and take pictures with you. Festive
9
music, crafts, food trucks and more will
HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE STROLL
12
Downtown Winter Garden
be there too! HamlinFL.com
WINTER GARDEN CHRISTMAS PARADE
Holiday shopping at its finest with a stroll
South Dillard Street & Plant Street
Garden to find unique presents while
Bring a lawn chair or blanket and head to
enjoying outdoor and indoor specials,
Enjoy unique shopping at the Holiday
your favorite spot for this annual event. A
promotions, and light refreshments. The
Market at Hamlin, the perfect local spot
long-standing Winter Garden holiday tra-
festive-decorated stores, downtown’s
for holiday gifts.
dition will delight spectators and bring in
enchanting decorations and lights dis-
holiday cheer! Don’t forget to look for the
plays, and holiday music in the air make
Big Guy himself at the end of the parade!
it a perfect evening for gift buying.
17
4
10
WINDERMERE HOLIDAY MOVIE/FOOD TRUCK NIGHT
2021 HOLIDAY HORSE DRAWN CARRIAGE TOURS IN DOWNTOWN WINTER GARDEN
HORIZON WEST BLOCK PARTY
Bring your chairs and blankets to enjoy
14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden, FL
over 15 food trucks and a holiday movie
Enjoy food trucks, kids activities, and fam-
on the big screen in Town Square Park.
104 S. Lakeview Ave.
ily fun at the Horizon West Block Party.
This family-friendly event is free to
Winter Garden, FL 34787
This event takes place from 5:30pm to
attend and starts at 5 pm https://read.
Soul Haven Ranch presents 2021 Holiday
9:00pm on the lawn outside of Cinépolis.
wg.life/HolidayMovieFoodTruck
Winter Garden Lifestyle | December 2021
of the boutiques of Downtown Winter
HOLIDAY MARKET AT HAMLIN
14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden, FL
Town Square Park | Windermer
NOW OPEN FOR TOURS! We are so excited to show you our beautiful community. The Blake at Hamlin features resort-style amenities and service, and delivers unsurpassed senior living. Hospitality, comfort, and luxury are blended to create a Senior Living community like no other. You are going to feel right at home!
EXPECT A HIGHER LEVEL OF CARE Chef-inspired meals | Full hospitality services from concierge to laundry Social, recreational, and cultural activities | 24-hour nursing care available Customized wellness programs and more!
Don’t wait, suites are limited! Call (407) 759-5448 to schedule your tour today.
WINTER GARDEN’S PREMIER SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY COMING SOON! 4814 Hamlin Groves Trail | Winter Garden, FL 34787 | blakeathamlin.com Assisted Living Facility: License Pending
Tis the
season 2021
h o l i d ay h a p p e n i n g s i n d o w n t o w n w i n t e r g a r d e n ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆
november 27 ★ ★
december 3
★
december 4 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
december 5
★
december 9
★
december 10 ★ ★ ★
december 11 ★ ★ ★
december 12
★ ★
december 17 ★ ★ ★
december 18 ★ ★ ★
december 19 ★ ★
december 22
★
december 23 ★ ★
december 24
★
december 26
★
december 27
★
december 28
★
december 29
★
december 30
★
event details and reservation links at www.cwgdn.com and www.downtownwg.com