Issuu

The Explore Issue A P R I L 2 022

Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care

WindsorAtCelebration.com | 407-917-4331 1370 Celebration Boulevard, Celebration, FL 34747

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Get Out And Explore!

April 2022 PUBLISHER

Anthony S Adams | anthony.adams@citylifestyle.com PUBLICATION DIR ECTOR

Carey Adams | wintergarden@citylifestyle.com

Spring symbolizes new beginnings. Nature reveals its beauty through budding trees and flowers, and the fresh temperate air invites us to spend more time outdoors. As we prepare our garden and flowerbeds, new life awakens joy in the beauty of our world and the desire to explore it. And for those of us without a green thumb, the local farmer's markets are gearing up for a busy season of visitors to enjoy fresh produce from local farmers. There is a multitude of diverse spots around town to discover, whether it is a new restaurant with a great patio to enjoy with friends and family, a hiking trail to take in nature and the surrounding scenery, or a niche boutique destination for a relaxing staycation—there is something for everyone. For our April issue, we wanted to share with you some ways of getting out to explore. We would love to hear from you about your favorite hidden gems in town and your go-to local travel destinations - drop us a line or share it with us on Facebook or Instagram. We hope that the stories featured this month give you something to dream about visiting in the near future. So, here is to a happy spring full of adventure and peace and sunshine! 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 magazine has been vetted by us and has the same involvement and dedication to our community as we do. Thank You, Larry H. Oskin (LOskin@MktgSols.com, 703-508-6800) of Art Beautique in Clermont, FL, for this month's cover image of the handsome Prince Charming, a 15.1 hand Quarter Horse from Triple G Equestrian (989-714-7878 or 989Runner@gmail.com). You can read the whole story on page 16. Also, Don't forget to follow and like us on Facebook and Instagram at @WinterGardenCityLifestyle. Thank you for inviting us into your home and sharing your lives with us. Here's to you and your family; live boldly, enjoy our community, be involved, and truly Live Your Best Life!

STAFF WR ITER

Larry H. Oskin | loskin@mktgsols.com Mike Haffner | justpotus@gmail.com COPY EDITOR

Candice Hawks | wintergarden@citylifestyle.com MAR KET SUPPORT MANAGER

Austin Adams | austin.kenneth.adams@gmail.com AD DESIGNER

Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER

Sara Minor CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Hilgardt Lamprecht CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Hilgardt Lamprecht, Hilton Lamprecht, Bosphorous Restaurant, Kennedy Space Center, City of St. Augustine, Wild Florida, The Dali

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

ANTHONY S ADAMS, PUBLISHER @WINTERGARDENCITYLIFESTYLE

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/ WINTERGARDEN |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Winter Garden City 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 City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

APRIL 2022

inside the issue The Explore Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

12 Hooked On Fishing

Lifestyle Letter

Business Monthly

Local Experiences

Outdoor Adventure

Local Limelight

Culinary Creations

Road Trip

Inspired By

Celebrate Adventure On The Florida Lakes!

16 Saddle Up For Horseplay!

Triple G Equestrian - Inspiring the love of horses and riding

20 Bosphorus

"Polished Casual" Turkish

32 Fueling Life’s Adventures

We all need a helping hand to keep our journey on track

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Larry H. Oskin Thank You, Larry H. Oskin (LOskin@MktgSols.com, 703-508-6800) of Art Beautique in Clermont, FL, for this month's cover image of Prince Charming a 15.1 hand Quarter Horse from Triple G Equestrian (989-714-7878 or 989Runner@gmail.com).

S PO RTS + R E C R E ATION

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more?

APRIL 2022

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Photography MOGE TEE

Live Music Every Friday In Hamlin Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and come listen to tunes from local musicians. Grab dinner from Bosphorus, Pizza Press, Ford's Garage, The Great Greek, beverages from MOGE TEE and Home State Brewing, and dessert from Abbotts! Relax with friends and family at this FREE event every Friday from 6-9 pm in the grassy area next to The Pizza Press - 16406 New Independence Pkwy, Winter Garden, FL 34787

Scan to read more.

Photography Susan Grogan

MÖGE TEE Opens Soon!

Arts in April

MÖGE TEE will open soon in Hamlin and is dedicated to creating a unique and innovative new-style tea beverage with the most natural and fresh taste, inspired by thousands of years of Chinese traditional tea culture. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook at @MogeTeeWinterGardenfor.

In celebration of World Art Day, the Winter Garden Arts Association and community partners will host a series of events throughout the month of April to raise awareness for local art organizations and artists, while providing opportunities for the community to explore and create art. All of the events are FREE, except for the fundraiser Art Night VIP. For more information visit Read. WG.Life/ArtsInApril2022

Scan to read more. Scan to read more.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

APRIL 2022

local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

Explore our area for a weekend staycation full of adventure and relaxation. Enjoy the many hidden gems in our area without the need to travel that allow you to unwind and feel like you are on vacation right in our own backyard.

Staycations WESTGATE R IVER R ANCH R ESOR T & R ODEO: Experience one of the last untouched pieces of Florida wilderness. An authentic Florida dude ranch that features horseback riding, Saturday night rodeo, and much more. 3200 River Ranch Boulevard, River Ranch, Florida 33867 WALDORF ASTORIA ORLANDO: The Himalayan Salt Room in the Waldorf Astoria Orlando Spa has become well known for offering relaxation and an adventurous escape from your daily grind 14200 Bonnet Creek Resort Ln Bay Lake, Fl WEKIWA SPR INGS STATE PAR K: Wekiwa Springs has miles of trails that beg to be explored by foot or bike. Canoes and kayaks are available on-site to enjoy the azure waters 1800 Wekiwa Circle Apopka, FL JONES BR OTHER S AIR AND SEA ADVENTUR ES: This Sea Plane tour takes you across Lake Apopka in search of massive gators and continues over the local Amusement Parks and more. 411 N Donnelly St Mount Dora, Fl EPCOT: Drink Around The World, enjoy international cuisine, and enjoy EPCOT abloom with brilliant gardens, lively entertainment, and more during International Flower & Garden Festival 200 Epcot Center Drive Orlando, FL

Waldorf Astoria

Scan for more photos and the full list.

Want to recommend a local experience? Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

Community Events IN DOWNTOWN WINTER GARDEN • Projection Art Show on City Hall • Kids Art Sessions at Winter Garden Farmers Market • Plein Air Competition • Fridays on the Plaza Live Music

• • • •

Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest Downtown Art Scavenger Hunt Art Exhibitions of All Ages Art Night VIP Immersive Experience

Event Schedule at www.DowntownWG.com

HOOKED ON

CELEBRATE ADVENTURE ON THE FLORIDA LAKES!

FISHING

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LARRY H. OSKIN

O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | S PORTS + RE CRE ATI ON

Getting hooked on Florida fishing is a true passion for many. With so many beautiful lakes in Central Florida, this is a hot spot for locals and tourists alike. If you haven't tried fishing here yet, now is the time to take advantage of this sport. BORN TO FISH! Captain Tim Bagwell of Get Hooked Bait & Tackle and Florida Bass Charters is considered the top bass boat fishing captain here in Central Florida. What started as his annual vacation flying from out of state to Winter Garden spawned into a successful career with two complementary fishing businesses. THE FISH WHISPERER! Bagwell says, "I am the only real bait shop and artificial bait company owner here in Florida who also professionally fishes in the Fishing League Worldwide and Major League Fishing Tournaments. We create our own fishing supplies with hundreds of live, jerk, crank, and artificial baits with traps, fish hooks, lines, poles, and all of the necessary state-of-the-art fishing equipment. As a United States Coast Guard Approved Captain, I'm certified to run one of the best Florida bass fishing charters. The rigorous USCG courses trained me as a federally licensed professional Captain to be a recognized expert while better understanding water currents, weather conditions, fishing techniques, CPR and boating safety procedures."

Tim Bagwell

FLORIDA BASS CHARTERS: Bagwell adds, "I'm a cancer survivor who fishes seven days a week. Fishing is more than just fishing for my clients and me. Fishing is a very healing sport. Fishing is something that brings people and communities together. I really do love getting my Florida Bass Charter clients out on the water. I am proud to have created endless amazing memories. Two Vietnam veterans shared compliments for how my bass fishing excursion made them forget about their enduring pains and aches while living like kids. An 8-year-old boy wrote how 'he had the best time of his life with his grandpa.' A father who was out with his son said, 'The fishing experience with you really was the best experience in my life!' I later learned he had been diagnosed with less than three months to live from cancer. Grown men have cried when they share heartwarming thanks to me after their excursions. I remain humbled when they thank me for what I do for them and our community. I try my best to make wonderful memories while changing their lives!" CHARTER FISHING: While Bagwell of Florida Bass Charters specializes in the Central Florida lakes, they also provide exciting ocean saltwater fishing excursions. Bagwell's favorite bass fishing is done on the Johns and Apopka lakes as well as the Butler Chain of Lakes in Windermere. Bagwell offers a 100% guarantee that you will catch bass fish when going on a charter excursion with him.

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Get Hooked Bait & Tackle Shop

Tim Bagwell’s Big Catch

SPECIAL EVENTS & COMMUNITY SUPPORT: Florida Bass Charters holds two charitable events each year for the area's children. They often team up with Windermere Police for Cops & Bobbers and other kid's events with the Fire Departments and the Boy Scouts. Kids up to 5 years stay on the docks with their pros. Staff, police, and pros help the 6 to 17-yearolds with the first 100 to sign up go out on the boat to learn from captains and pro anglers. He offers fishing lessons, minnow races, and fishing games while the kids earn awards and prizes for the first fish and the biggest caught fish. Every kid goes home with a prize. In addition, Bagwell holds free how-to educational workshops online to teach children all of the basics about fishing. GET HOOKED BAIT & TACKLE SHOP: Bagwell adds, “Come on in! Being at our Bait Shop isn’t just where miracles and happiness happen.” Tim and his staff helper John are there to help with professional fishing advice.

O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | S PORTS + RE CRE ATI ON

FISHING IS THE REEL DEAL! Bagwell shares, "Fishing is truly a healing sport. My true passion is to help anyone and everyone, from those with no shoes or affordability to children, church groups, father-son bonding trips, celebrities, multi-millionaires, and billionaires whom I have had the good fortune to host on my charter fishing excursions. I love helping others with special fishing experiences. That's the best-treasured reward in the world for me!" For more information on Florida Bass Charters, visit Get Hooked Bait & Tackle at 358 Story Road in Ocoee, FL 34761. Phone: 407821-6101 / 407-461-6827. Email: BassCharters@gmail.com. Follow them on Facebook at @FloridaBassCharter and visit www. FloridaBassCharter.com.

TRIPLE G EQUESTRIAN Dutch Morrow and Prince Charming

S A D DL E U P F OR HOR S E PL AY !

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | SPORTS + RE CRE ATI ON

Martha Scherzer-Gomez, Prince Charming & Dutch Morrow

TRIPLE G EQUESTRIAN - INSPIRING THE LOVE OF HORSES AND RIDING

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LARRY OSKIN

Equestrian horseback riding is always a fun, adventurous, heartwarming sports activity for children and adults alike. Well-bred horses are very gentle and loving. Triple G Equestrian Center in Winter Garden is an excellent place for recreational horseback riding, lessons, summer camping, birthday parties, barn yoga, hayrides, family movie nights, holiday celebrations, and special seasonal events. In addition, they offer Easter Egg Hunts and horseback trick or treat fun on Halloween. Triple G is a perfect place for boarding your horses here in Central Florida. This 9-stall boutique farm has easy access to private, groomed trails, 12’ x 12’ stalls with mats, a large riding arena with new footing and jumps, hot and cold-water wash stalls, tack rooms, compressed bales in the paddocks, superb quality care and a great location! Triple G Equestrian Center is an active, proud member of the U.S. Equestrian Foundation. A Family Farm: Originally from Saginaw, Michigan, Martha Scherzer-Gomez has loved riding and grooming horses since she was young. She was involved in dressage, riding, playing polo, and equestrian jumping since she was a teen. She has experience grooming horses for competitive Olympic sports riders in Wellington, Florida. While working full-time at Apopka Health and Rehab, she is an experienced licensed practical nurse with a successful history of working in the hospital and healthcare industries. She is skilled in medical education, orthopedic rehabilitation, psychiatry, and orthopedic surgery. Her husband works for Disney janitorial suppliers. Together, they chose to relocate to Winter Garden, Florida, as they wanted a rural family farm environment to raise their children. They purchased their Triple G Equestrian Center property in October 2020 and quickly filled it with horses, farm animals, and pet dogs. Even though it really CONTINUED >

AP R I L 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WI N T E R GA R D E N

needed a lot of work and investments in fencing, landscaping, and riding arena upgrades with a complete renovation, it was a dream come true. They named their farm the Triple G Equestrian Center using their children’s names of son – Gabriel ‘Gabe’ and daughter -- Grace Gomez. Horseplay Fun: Here, young children, teens, and adults learn horsemanship, grooming, care, and everything about equestrian riding from the ground up. It is not a competition ‘show barn’ like many other local equestrian farms. ScherzerGomez shares, “Our kids have the unique advantages of pride, pleasure, and fun. They work very hard and know true grit while earning TV and computer screen time. There are always plenty of challenges with the rising costs of fuel, hay and upkeep, yet we do it all for our kids!” Future Dreams: They plan to expand on their special events, including an overnight summer tent camp opportunity. She adds, “We have access to the best trails in Orange County which include water conservation sights, lakefronts, and beautiful undeveloped paths off of Route 429.” ScherzerGomez plans to start a Pony Club Chapter someday. Much like Girl and Boy Scouts, there are Pony Clubs across the USA where kids can learn horsemanship, teamwork, veterinary care, and everything needed for equestrian riding. They will learn about driving, endurance, reining, and vaulting while graduating with certifications to be eligible for the Olympics. They hope to offer lessons in eventing as well as riding lessons for special needs clients. Martha Scherzer-Gomez notes, “Even though I work two full-time careers at nursing and running our equestrian center, I am truly inspired. We love to help inspire others, especially children. Our Triple G Equestrian Center is truly kid and family-friendly! Triple G Equestrian Center is a God-given dream come true!” Triple G Equestrian Center: For more information, contact Martha ScherzerGomez 989-714-7878 or 989Runner@gmail. com. Like and follow them on Facebook at https://read.wg.life/TripleGEquestrian

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | SPORTS + RE CRE ATI ON

TRIPLE G EQUESTRIAN

Prince Charming & Martha Scherzer-Gomez

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“Polished Casual” Turkish Cuisine

Bosphorus is the original Turkish Restaurant in Orlando, now serving multiple locations in Winter Garden, Dr. Philips, Lake Nona, and Winter Park. At each location, you'll walk in to find authentic Turkish decor, including pottery, hand-painted lamps, carpets, and furniture. But, it's at this moment you'll find yourself stepping into an entirely new elevated dining experience, something out of the ordinary.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOG R APHY BY M IKE HAFFNE R (@JUSTPOTUS)

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

The owners like to emphasize they are a "polished casual" restaurant, where you can feel comfortable coming in after work during happy hour to enjoy a cocktail, celebrate a 50th-anniversary party, a fancy date night, or even just a regular family dinner. They are anything but stuffy, and their staff reflects this throughout the restaurant. John Christiansen, the General Manager of the Winter Garden location, has been with Bosphorus for a little over five years and attributes their success to their customer-oriented strategy paired with the focus on making sure their staff feels appreciated, happy, and able to make a living while working there. For example, during the start of the pandemic, they turned their kitchens into a free food pantry for their employees to help them with groceries. In order to reduce turnover, Bosophrous encourages open communication between staff and management so that everyone feels like their opinions matter and feels valued as an employee. Many of their employees have been there for a long time, which helps provide a consistent dining experience each time. The customer-oriented strategy is adopted early on during the hiring process to ensure the restaurant has a substantial amount of repeat business. They know that a loyal customer is key to their success and go to great lengths to create a unique and satisfying experience each time. In addition, each location strives to make sure their customers feel "welcome" into their "home" while dining at Bosophrous, just like the Turkish way. If you haven't had Turkish cuisine before, your taste buds are in for an adventure. Experienced chefs prepare the food, and they use only Halal meats. Halal meats are fresh, never frozen meats, and you will be pleasantly surprised at how much better they taste because of that. Their culinary team will only use the freshest vegetables and the most authentic Mediterranean ingredients. They import many of those ingredients from Turkey just like they do with the many decor pieces. Turkish food is incredibly flavorful and leaves your hunger satisfied. You can start off with their signature appetizer, Lavas, which is a hollow bread that you can rip apart to dip in the various dips or soups offered. Most customers will opt for the babaganoush, hummus, or ezme to start with, which will all pair well with the lavas. If you didn't know, babaganoush is a fresh smoked eggplant puree with tahini, yogurt, and olive oil; ezme is a spicy blend of tomatoes, red and green bell peppers, red onions, walnuts, garlic, parsley, dill pickle, and lemon juice. If you want to go towards more of a hot appetizer to start with, then try the Sigara Boregi; this crispy filo dough is then stuffed with creamy feta cheese and parsley. After trying these, you wouldn't believe how many people order a second order for the table! Now, after you finish that first course of appetizers, you'll need to try one of the best Turkish entrees you can find in Central Florida. If you aren't sure exactly what to pick because it all looks so good, perhaps order the "Mixed Grill for two." This is going to be served with a combination of all the meats they offer at the restaurant, and it'll be perfect for sampling what you like so you know how to order next time you come back. It also comes with a hearty helping of rice, onions, and carrots, so both of the people ordering it will have more than enough. CONTINUED > AP R I L 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WI NT E R GA R D E N

Don't leave without trying the last course, dessert! They have a great variety of authentic Turkish desserts like pistachio baklava, chocolate hazelnut baklava, pistachio gelato, and a local favorite, Kunefe. Kunefe is shredded filo dough filled with sweet Turkish cheese, baked and topped with citrus-infused syrup and pistachios. Try it with a pistachio gelato scoop on top for pure bliss at the end of your meal. Bosphorus also has an excellent cocktail menu with a Turkish twist to many of them. The best part is that their happy hour is one of the best you can find in Central Florida. It lasts from 3p-6p any day of the week, including weekends! Their beers, cocktails, and wines by the glass are half off! It's one of the more remarkable happy hours where you can find the best drink deals and the best food around. If you are a local, you'll be pleased to know that they carry beer from local breweries, such as Orlando Brewing and Crooked Can Brewery. So if you have a favorite craft beer from a local spot, you might be able to find it here! So come for the drinks, stay for the food, celebrate the occasion and come back for the experience! Bosphorus: 16418 New Independence Pkwy #140 Winter Garden FL 34787. For more information or to make reservations, call 407-554-2242, visit www.BosphorousRestaurant. com, or find them on OpenTable.

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6 DAY TRIPS TO GET YOU OUT AND EXPLORING If you’re looking to escape for a bit, there are many day trips that are absolutely fantastic. You can watch rockets launch into the sky, swim around with manatees in pristine hot springs, take a high-speed airboat ride, or explore historic neighboring cities, just to name a few. We’re sharing 6 day trips that won’t take you all day to get to, along with our choices of where to eat and imbibe in each. So, whatever you’re in the mood for, hop in the car and let’s go!

BE AN ASTRONAUT FOR THE DAY! You don’t have to be a budding astronaut to appreciate the attractions at Kennedy Space Center (KSC) Visitor Complex (www.KennedySpaceCenter. com - (855) 433-4210). This famous NASA facility has historic launch pads, rocket exhibits, astronaut encounters, 3D IMAX films, and a poignant memorial to NASA’s fallen heroes. Arrive at the center as early as you can, as there’s enough here to keep you busy for the full day.

R OA D T R IP | TR AVEL

Kennedy Space Center (KSC)

EXPLORE Favorite exhibits include watching a live launch, the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, the Shuttle Launch Experience, and the Apollo/Saturn V Center (where you can easily spend a few hours exploring the exhibits). Must-do upgrades include the Astronaut Training Experience (ATX) and Mars Base 1. Although astronauts need to eat dehydrated food, you don’t. Our favorite local diner destination is Dixie Crossroads (https:// DixieCrossroads.com – (321) 268-5000), where we eat so many Corn Fritters; we can barely finish the Dixie Spectacular Combo!

Kennedy Space Center (KSC)

EXPLORE HISTORIC ST. AUGUSTINE Founded in 1565, Saint Augustine (www.VisitStAugustine. com - (904) 825-1000) is the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the contiguous United

St. Augustine

States. Established 55 years before the Pilgrims by Spanish explorer Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles of Spain. Amazing landmarks fill the historic downtown, and the Colonial Quarter is a living history taking you back in time. The hop-on/off trolley is a great way to explore the town. Top stops include the Pirate and Treasure Museum, Lightner Museum, Castillo de San Marcos, and don’t forget to explore picturesque St. George Street for charming boutique shops, antiques, and great food. You can even sail aboard the Schooner Freedom (https://www.SchoonerFreedom.com (904) 810-1010). All that exploring will make you thirsty, and our pick for ‘cocktails with lunch’ is Forgotten Tonic (https://forgottentonic.com – (904) 827-9055), where our favorites are the Baked Brie and “I Can’t Even” cocktail. CONTINUED >

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ADVENTURE Wild Florida

AN AIRBOAT RIDE, DRIVE-THRU SAFARI ADVENTURE, AND GATOR PARK Travel deep into the protected swamps, marshes and rivers that make up the Headwaters of the Everglades on one of Wild Florida Airboats and Gator Park’s (https://WildFloridAirboats.com - (407) 9573135) high-speed airboats. You get an in-depth look at the gators, birds, eagles, trees, and plants as you glide through endless miles of beautiful wilderness. Next, drive your own car through a Safari Park with more than 100 exotic animals and native Florida wildlife. You can even hand-feed giraffes from a platform high above the safari park with incredible views and check out the pond dedicated exclusively as a home for all the “nuisance” alligators trapped by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. To close out the day, explore the Gator Park where you can see albino gators, meet Crusher the monster alligator, get hands-on during a personal animal encounter with sloths, lemurs, porcupines, and gators, and explore the Hawk Swamp boardwalk through a pristine Florida cypress swamp ecosystem. Wild Florida’s own Chomp House Grill is a barbeque restaurant with smoked chicken, pulled pork, burgers, hotdogs. Our pick for lunch is a Swamp Slushy and Swamp Platter with fried catfish and gator – Just don’t tell Crusher!

THE MANATEES OF CRYSTAL RIVER

Wild Florida

If you’re a wildlife lover, few experiences are more thrilling than a face-to-face encounter with an endangered 1,500-pound West Indian Manatee. These gentle giants, sometimes called sea cows, swim in the warm waters of the Crystal River (https://Read.WG.Life/CrystalRiver). Remember to ‘Mind Your Manatee Manners’ (https:// Read.WG.Life/MindYourManateeManners) as it is a felony to touch a manatee. Your best choice to swim and snorkel with the animals in their natural habitat is with an expert guide. River Ventures (www.RiverVentures.com – (352) 564-8687) has a 3-hour Swim with Manatee Tour and a Paddle with Manatee Tour. You can usually spot the manatee at any time of year, although November through March is the prime time when they come here to escape cooling sea temperatures. For dinner, check out the Seagrass Waterfront Pub and Grill (352-503-2007), where you can relax like a manatee and enjoy a Bacardi Yum Rum Runner and Parmesan Scallops. Manatees Of Crystal River

R OA D T R IP | TR AVEL

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CYCLE THE WITHLACOOCHEE STATE TRAIL

TRAVEL

The 46-mile long Withlacoochee State Trail (http://Read.WG.Life/Withlacoochee) on Florida’s central Gulf Coast is a perfect way to discover a part of Florida few get to see. The former stretch of railroad track managed by the State of Florida is part of their “rails-to-trails” program and follows the course of the Withlacoochee River from Dunnellon to Floral City on a paved recreational trail that’s perfect for hiking, biking, and skating. The trail is flat and ideal for all levels of cycling and fitness skill, and horseback riding is also available on a separate trail which parallels portions of the paved trail. The quiet Withlacoochee offers some of the most stunning vistas of old Florida along the Tsala Apopka, a chain of freshwater lakes, marsh, cypress swamps, and pasture extending for miles in every direction. Currently, the Trail is the longest paved rail-to-trail in the state and extends through three counties – Citrus, Hernando, and Pasco. Close to the Crystal River and a great starting point to ride (or walk), the trail is in Inverness. You can rent bikes from Dave’s Cycle World (352-6375757) for everyone in the family. History lovers will enjoy a visit to the Old Courthouse Heritage Museum (https://CCCourthouse.org) features a local history museum and is famous as a filming location from the 1961 movie “Follow That Dream” starring Elvis Presley. Citrus County Speedway (www.CitrusCountySpeedwayAndTrack.com) is a unique figure-8 racetrack that hosts several popular races throughout the season. After a long day on a long trail (46-miles long to be exact), dinner calls for something fresh and cool; sushi. Kawa Sushi (https://www. KawaSushiInverness.com - (352) 765-3337) where the Spicy Girl Roll and an ice-cold Ichiban is the winning combination. CONTINUED >

Fruit Tea ∙ Milk Tea ∙ Yogurt Fruit Tea Tofu Pudding ∙ Souffle ∙ More! MogeTeeUSA.com

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14410 Shoreside Way, Ste. 140 Winter Garden, FL 34787

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Slow Smoked Meats

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Perfect for Summer Gatherings Let Us Cater Your Event! 407.913.6203 David@TheSmokingSoul.com @thesmokingsoul AP R I L 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WI N T E R GA R D E N

DISCOVER VISIT THE “THE SUNSHINE CITY”

The Dali

Saint Petersburg, which sits between the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, is known for holding the title of “most consecutive days with sunshine” at 768 days! Downtown St. Petersburg is the city’s heart, home to great shopping, restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions. “The Sunshine City” offers a great mix of cultural and outdoorsy attractions. Baseball fans can catch a Tampa Bay Rays game at Tropicana Field (https://www.MLB.com/Rays/Ballpark). St. Pete is home to The Dalí (TheDali.org – (727) 823-3767), which has the largest collection of Dali’s work outside of Spain and well worth a visit. Exploring the beautiful Vinoy Park with tall banyan trees, outdoor cafes, iconic museums is a great

St. Petersburg

spend of the afternoon. While in the park, don’t forget to visit the historic Vinoy hotel (just note that this hotel is said to be haunted, although we have never experienced any ghosts). A few blocks from Tropicana Field, in the Grand Central District, is Trophy Fish (http:// TrophyFishStPete.com - (727) 258-7883), where the menu changes daily according to the catch of the day, and the cocktail menu has won multiple awards. We just close our eyes and point to the menu!

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Complimentary + Comprehensive

Retirement Planning Courses Educational workshops for retirees and those planning for retirement.

Taxes in Retirement

Understanding Your Social Security Benefit Options

Medicare and Planning for Long-Term Care

A Guide to 401(k)

Tuesday, April 12th

Thursday, April 14th

Tuesday, April 19th

Thursday, April 21st

6:30pm-8:00pm

All courses will be held at the

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The Winter Garden Heritage Museum 21 E Plant St. · Winter Garden, FL 34787

One Stop. Many Options. 352.404.9990

or call 844.211.6119 with RSVP #4571

Alexa Ballard Financial Advisor Alexa@ballardfinancial.com

Briana DeFano

Chris Ballard

Financial Advisor Certified Financial Planner & Fiduciary Briana@ballardfinancial.com Chris@ballardfinancial.com

BallardFinancial.com | 773 West Montrose St. Clermont, FL 34711

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Garden Route

ADVENTURES We all need a helping hand to keep our journey on track

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY HILGARDT LAMPRECHT, CFP, CKA, CEXP

I NSP IR E D BY | FIN AN CE + LE GAL S E RVI CE S

“What was our biggest adventure?” You won’t believe it. They all agreed that being stranded and having the barefoot farmer save our day was their definition of adventure!

Adventure — this word is synonymous with my middle name! I love adventure! So when I was in South Africa on a family vacation, and my teenage boys were looking for a great adventure, I knew we would have one. I wasn’t wrong — South Africa is not short of great adventures. We stayed in an area called the Garden Route because of its tremendous beauty. We rented a house 1.5 hours away from Oudtshoorn, where my father was born.

OSTRICHES, MAMBAS, AND CROCS, OH MY! Our most memorable day started with a visit to an ostrich farm in Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of South Africa. Have you ever tried riding an ostrich? You steer it by its neck, like the controls of a plane — push his neck left, and he turns left. It is more like riding a bull than a horse, and you better hang on for dear life! Next, we were off to a snake and crocodile park. Man, have you ever seen a black mamba? It is one of the deadliest snakes in Southern Africa. One bite and you are meeting your maker within three hours. Gators in America are docile compared to the African crocodile. We saw some of them getting fed, jumping out of the water, and snatching dead chickens from the guides’ poles. Then we visited the Cango Caves, a stunning system of caves that I went through many times as a boy. There is a narrow area called the mailbox through which you crawl, half vertical and half horizontal — it’s not something for the faint-hearted or claustrophobic.

OUR BAREFOOT RESCUER After this full day of adventures, we began the 1.5-hour-drive home. The tank was low, and I was counting the kilometers until our destination. And then it happened — we ran completely out of gas.

Stranded on the side of the interstate, I said, “OK, boys, let’s just get out and start pushing” to the next exit. I was nervous because 20 years earlier, my parents ran out of gas at night next to the interstate and someone helped them get gas. When they returned to their car, it was in flames because someone had set it on fire. I was, therefore, eager to get to a gas station while it was still light. With the boys pushing and me screaming instructions from the open door, it was quite the sight! That’s when a young farmer arrived, got out with a big smile, and said, “Can I help you?” He had just come from the beach, was barefoot, and, in a vacation spirit, was kind to help. He drove us to the gas station, filled an old Coke bottle full of gas, and got us on the road. He really saved us. Two weeks later, as we flew home, I asked my boys, “What was our biggest adventure?” You won’t believe it. They all agreed that being stranded and having the barefoot farmer save our day was their definition of adventure!

WHAT’S YOUR DREAM ADVENTURE? Planning your wealth and your life can be like that as well. Life often feels as if you are riding an ostrich and just hanging on for dear life. There are many dangers in trying to build wealth, such as taking too much risk, picking the wrong type of investments, and succumbing to the “too good to be true” opportunities — discovering they were too good to be true. Paying unnecessary taxes and getting lost in all the talking heads on the internet and TV can feel like the dangers of a mamba or getting lost in the Cango Caves! How do you protect your family? The first step to growing and protecting your wealth and even living a more significant life starts CONTINUED >

AP R I L 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WI N T E R GA R D E N

with finding a helping hand, an experienced guide, and a knowledgeable team who have a desire to help and who can help very well. No one wants to run out of gas or money before their destination. At The LifeWealth Group, the most important questions we get asked are: • Do we have enough money to retire? • What happens when one of us dies —will the other one be OK? • If the markets were to lose a lot of money, would we still be OK for the long run? • If we need to spend a lot of money on health care, will we still be OK? This is where The LifeWealth Group comes in. We are experienced guides who help families maximize wealth to help them see more dreams come true. We help you with growing and protecting your wealth and making sure there is enough gas in your wealth tanks for the entire journey, even if life gives you detours like down markets and unfortunate health events. We like to help, just like the young farmer helped my boys and me on our great adventure. Are you fully ready for your LifeWealth adventure — to see more dreams come true? CFP Board owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the U.S. Madison Avenue Securities, LLC is not affiliated with any religion or faith-based financial advisor organization. AE Wealth Management provides services without regard to religious affiliation, and the views of individual advisors are not necessarily the views of AE Wealth Management. The LifeWealth Group is an independent financial services firm that utilizes a variety of investment and insurance products. Securities offered only by duly registered individualists through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC (MAS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered only by duly registered individuals through AE Wealth Management, LLC (AEWM), a Registered Investment Adviser. MAS and The LifeWealthGroup are not affiliated companies. AEWM and The LifeWealthGroup are not affiliated companies. 1221729 02/22

I NSP IR E D BY | FIN AN CE + LE GAL S E RVI CE S

Winter Garden’s Premier Senior Living Community is Now Open! To celebrate, we invite you to an outdoor Block Party. Take a tour of our beautiful community, meet our team and discover all that The Blake has to offer.

Expect the highest level of care Chef-inspired meals | Full-service hospitality from concierge to laundry Social, recreational, and cultural activities | 24-hour nursing care available Customized wellness programs and more!

J O I N U S O N F R I D A Y, A P R I L 2 2 N D | 6 - 8

p. m .

Call (407) 759-5448 to reserve your spot today.

WINTER GARDEN’S PREMIER SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY IS NOW OPEN 4814 Hamlin Groves Trail | Winter Garden, FL 34787 | blakeathamlin.com AL #13674

‘HEALTHY’ IS IN OUR NAME. But we’re not asking you to give up bacon. We do want you to Join the Movement to build the healthiest community in the nation. Being healthy isn’t about restriction, diets, or perfection. It’s about small changes and positive choices. From daily inspiration to ﬁtness challenges and events, we’re here to help you eat well, stay active, and enjoy life.

Visit healthywestorange.org today to get started, and join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

DANCE

s ’ y l t es

CHALLENGE Show us your moves! Add 30 minutes of dancing to your daily life between April 22 and May 1, make a recording (video preferred, but photo is great too!), and either email it to us at Westly@HealthyWestOrange.org or share on social media with #WestlysDanceChallenge and tag @healthywestorange. You’ll receive a FREE dance goodie bag for signing up, and be entered to win a fabulous grand prize! Register now at HWOEvents.org!