Spotlight event
Archery workshop: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 27; Oakland Nature Preserve, 747 Machete Trail, Oakland. The class is for youth in grades 6-12. Reservations are required. $25 for ONP members, $35 nonmembers. 407-905-0054.
Holidays
Braille calendars: The Braille Association of MidFlorida offers 2014 calendars embossed in Braille. The calendar highlights holidays and has embossed illustrations with a unique theme. For those sending one as a gift, their name and a short personal note written by them will be embossed in Braille and sent with the calendar. The calendars cost $10 and can be mailed to any address in the United States. To order, call 407-349-5059.
Holidays at the Waterhouse: noon-4 p.m. Thursdays-Sundays through Jan. 5; Historic Waterhouse Residence and Carpentry Shop Museum, 820 Lake Lily Drive, Maitland. The Art & History Museums-Maitland’s annual exhibit transforms the Waterhouse Residence Museum, an 1884 home located in the center of Lake Lily, with Victorian Christmas trees, decorations and traditions. Each room features Victorian-era holiday decorations and interesting historical facts about the yuletide. $3 for adults, $2 for seniors age 55 or older and children ages 4-18, free for A&H members and children 3 or younger. 407-539-2181.
Leu Holiday House: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. daily through Jan. 5; Leu House Museum, 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando. Each room in the historic estate will be adorned with holiday
Lectures, Seminars
Genealogy program: 7-9 p.m. Jan. 7; Maitland Public Library, 501 S. Maitland Ave., Maitland. The Jewish Genealogical Society of Greater Orlando will have Rae Price Library of Judaica at the University of Florida Curator, Rebecca Jefferson, and Journalism and Mass Communications Librarian at UF, April Hines, present the program “Jewish Newspapers in the Florida Digital Newspaper Library: An Introduction and Tutorial.” Free. 407-494-4230.
“Domestic Violence Against Women” lecture: 7-8 p.m. Jan. 9; Alafaya branch of the Orange County Library System, 12000 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando. Ishaq Zahid from Islamic Circle of North America will share the current statistics and discuss ways to come out of bad husband-wife relationships to that of love and compassion. Free. 407-4798856.
“Sharon Robinson: Values, Baseball, and Jackie Robinson” lecture: 7-9 p.m. Jan. 23; Bush Auditorium, Rollins College 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park. Sharon Robinson, daughter of legendary major league baseball
Jan. 31-Feb. 2; San Pedro Center, 2400 Dike Road, Winter Park. The Retrouvaille program is for couples who are struggling, separated or divorced but would like to give their marriages another chance. It is presented by volunteers. Couples are asked to make an anonymous donation to cover the costs of their rooms and meals for the weekend session. The program includes the Jan. 31Feb. 2 weekend session and six follow-up sessions. Follow-up sessions are free. Revenue is used to continue and expand programs. Reservations required. 352-2744614.
Outdoors, Environment
Antique roses: 2:30 p.m. Jan. 5; Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando. The Orlando Area Historical Rose Society will have a program about “Old Garden
8 a.m. Jan. 11; Orange County University of Florida IFAS Extension, 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando. Orange County residents who want to receive two free trees to plant in their landscapes should register upon arrival and provide proof of Orange County residency, such as driver’s license, photo I.D., or utility bill. Trees are distributed on a first-come, firstserved basis and supply is limited to two trees per household. Orange County/ University of Florida IFAS Master Gardener volunteers will be available to answer landscape questions. 407254-9200.
Ikebana demonstration: 11 a.m. Jan. 17; Orlando Garden a.m. Feb. 15; Barnett Park, 4801 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando. Orange County residents who want to receive two free trees to plant in their landscapes should register upon arrival and provide proof of Orange County residency, such as driver’s license, photo I.D., or utility bill. Trees are distributed on a first-come, firstserved basis and supply is limited to two trees per household. Orange County/ University of Florida IFAS Master Gardener volunteers will be available to answer landscape questions. 407254-9200.
Health
Educational Series for Alzheimer’s/Dementia Caregivers: 5:30-7 p.m. Jan. 7; Peggy & Philip B. Crosby YMCA Wellness Center, 2005 Mizell Ave., Winter Park. Dr.
Classes
Line dance: 10-11:30 a.m. Saturdays; Winter Park
Libraries
Community Center, 721 W. New England Ave., Winter Park. Enjoy music and get exercise at the same time. Beginners are encouraged to come at 9:30 a.m. for an introduction to the basic steps. $5. 407-592-7835.
Ballroom dance: 1:30 p.m. Mondays, 1 p.m. Wednesdays; Winter Park Community Center, 721 W. New England Ave., Winter Park. Classes are designed for those with limited or no experience. Free. 407-643-1613.
Recorder class: 3:30-4:15 p.m. Mondays for beginners, 11:15 a.m.-noon or 2:30-3:15 p.m. Wednesdays for intermediate; Magnolia Park, 2929 Binion Road, Apopka. Learn music, theory and group performance. Open to all ages. Advance registration required. $2 per class. 407-886-4231.
Basic Vegetable Gardening in Florida: 9-10:30 a.m. Jan. 11, 10-11:30 a.m. Jan. 15; Orange County Extension Education Center, 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando. Topics include soil preparation, measuring soil acidity (pH), fertilization, irrigation, pest and diseases. Registration required. Free. 407-254-9200.
Polish language: The beginner class is from 6-7 p.m., the intermediate class from 7-8 p.m., Wednesdays, Feb. 5-May 7; Marks Street Senior Recreation Complex, 99 E. Marks St., Orlando. Beginning and intermediate conversational Polish classes, sponsored by the Polish Educational and Cultural Foundation. Advance registration required. $50 for members, $70 for nonmembers. 407-352-6569.
“Senior Survival” seminar: 6-8 p.m. Jan. 23; Winter Park Public Library, 460 E. New England Ave., Winter Park. Board Certified Elder Law Attorney Kathleen Flammia will discuss Medicaid and veteran benefits, asset protection and estate planning. Reservations requested. Free. 407-478-8700.
Camera course for beginners: 7 p.m. Jan. 6, Feb. document your family history in the 21st century. Free. 407-629-1972.
Festivals, Shows
Coin and Currency Show: Cornerstone Charter Academy, 5903 Randolph Ave., Belle Isle. The annual event promotes the living history of the Pine Castle area through demonstrations and fun events for children. Activities include traditional pioneer crafts and demonstrations such as historic encampments and reenactments, traditional music, quilting, basketry and storytelling. There will also be a parade at 9 a.m. Feb. 22 and an interfaith service 8 a.m. Feb. 23. $3 per person or $5 for families (up to two adults and all accompanied children). 407-427-9692.
Singles
Ballroom Dancing: 7-9:30 p.m. Fridays; Marks Street Senior Recreation Complex, 99 E. Marks St., Orlando. Sponsored by Your Adult Club Socials. There will be a live band and refreshments. Couples welcome. $4 for members, $5 for nonmembers. 407-889-4047.
Ballroom Dance: 7-9:30 p.m. Wednesdays; Marks Street Senior Recreation Complex, 99 E. Marks St., Orlando. Belles and Beaus Dance Club will have a dance with ballroom, line and Latin music by Soft Touch. Singles and couples welcome. $5. 407-277-7008.
Fundraisers
noon-3 p.m. Jan. 11; Rosen Plaza Hotel, 9700 International Drive, Orlando. Hosted by the Ladies of the Epsilon Epsilon Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Proceeds will benefit the Zetas Excelling Through Action Foundation Scholarship Fund. $35. 407-463-8110. a.m.-4:30 p.m. Jan. 11; Conway First Baptist Church, 4000 S. Conway Road, Orlando. The AARP Driver Safety Program’s Smart Driver Course helps participants refine driving skills and develop safe driving habits. Upon completion of the course, Florida drivers 50 or older may be eligible for vehicle insurance discounts. Registration required. $15 for AARP members, $20 for nonmembers. 407-277-3040.
Driver safety program: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Jan. 11, Jan. 25, Feb. 8, Feb. 22; Beardall Senior Center, 800 S. Delaney Ave., Orlando. The AARP Driver Safety Program’s Smart Driver Course helps participants refine driving skills and develop safe driving habits. Upon completion of the course, Florida drivers 50 or older may be eligible for vehicle insurance discounts. Registration required. $15 for AARP members, $20 for nonmembers. 407-246-4440.
Neighbors Network information session: 6-7 p.m. Jan. 15, 6 p.m. Feb. 5; Maitland Public Library, 501 S. Maitland Ave., Maitland. Learn about Neighbors Network, a new nonprofit membership organization helping adults 55 and older age at home with confidence in Winter Park, Maitland, Eatonville and close-by neighborhoods. It connects members with screened volunteers, vetted vendors and community supporters to help with needed tasks and activities. Free. 321-209-2775.
How to Pay for Long-Term Care: Medicaid & VA Benefits seminar: 6-7 p.m. Jan. 16; Marks Street Senior Recreation Complex, 99 E. Marks St., Orlando. Board Certified Elder Law Attorney Patricia Fuller and Attorney Heather Kirson will discuss estate planning, advance directives, nursing home asset protection, Medicaid and veterans benefits. Reservations requested. Free. 407-422-3017.
Retired law enforcement officers: 8 a.m. the third Tuesday of the month; International House of Pancakes, 1345 Lee Road, Orlando. The Retired Cops Breakfast Group is open to any agency, from federal to local police. Buy your own meal. 407-298-1616.
Driver safety program: 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Jan. 16; Calvary Assembly, 1199 Clay St., Winter Park. The AARP Driver Safety Program’s Smart Driver Course helps participants refine driving skills and develop safe driving habits. Upon completion of the course, Florida drivers 50 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Feb. 12; Maitland Senior Center, 345 S. Maitland Ave., Maitland. The AARP Driver Safety Program’s Smart Driver Course helps participants refine driving skills and develop safe driving habits. Upon completion of the course, Florida drivers 50 or older may be eligible for vehicle insurance discounts. Registration required. $15 for AARP members, $20 for nonmembers. 407-539-6251.
Driver safety program: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Feb. 27; Renaissance Senior Center, 3800 S. Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando. The AARP Driver Safety Program’s Smart Driver Course helps participants refine driving skills and develop safe driving habits. Upon completion of the course, Florida drivers 50 or older may be eligible for vehicle insurance discounts. Registration required. $15 for AARP members, $20 for nonmembers. 407-254-9070.
Support Groups
Grief: 6-7 p.m. the last Thursday of the month; Windermere Union Church, 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Road, Windermere. Free. 407-876-2112.
Male Alzheimer’s caregivers forum: 10 a.m. the first and third Thursday of the month; Best Western Mount Vernon Inn, 110 S. Orlando Ave., Winter Park. The Men’s Breakfast Club is an informal and unstructured gathering of male caregivers. Sponsored by the Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center. Free. 407-843-1910.
Bipolar Disorder: noon Thursdays; First United Methodist Church of Winter Park, 125 N. Interlachen Ave., Winter Park. Central Florida Bipolar Support meets in room 320 of the Matthius Family Life Center on the third floor. This is a peer facilitated meeting for individuals and family members of people with Bipolar Disorder and related illnesses. Free. 321-800-8279.
Recovery International, a self-help mental health organization, has two locations in the Orlando area; 6 p.m. Wednesdays, Marks Street Senior Recreation complex, 99 E. Marks St., Orlando and10:45 a.m. Saturdays, St. Mark’s Presbyterian Church, 1021 Palm Springs Drive, Altamonte Springs. The organization helps people who suffer from depression, anxiety, fears and anger. Free. 407-660-2003.
Alzheimer’s disease: 6:30 p.m. the third Thursday of the month; Emeritus at Ocoee, 80 N. Clarke Road, Ocoee. A group for those caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease sponsored by the Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center. Free. 407-843-1910.
Widows and Widowers: 10 a.m. the third Saturday of the month; Denny’s, 440 S. Semoran Blvd., Orlando. Free, buy your own food.
407-489-8415.
Overeaters Anonymous: 4:30-5 p.m. newcomer meeting, 5-6 p.m. others Sundays; Florida Hospital Seventh Day Adventist Church, 2800 N. Orange Ave. Church-Florida Hospital Seventh Day Adventist, Orlando. Free. 407-284-1482.
T.O.P.S. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly): 6-7:30 p.m. Mondays; Faith Family Community Church, 305 Beulah Road, Winter Garden. $28 annually. 407-936-4380.
Bereavement: 6:30 p.m. Mondays; St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, 9600 W. Colonial Drive, Ocoee. This is a non-denominational group. Free. 407-256-5492.
Nar-Anon: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays; First United Methodist Church of Winter Park, 125 N. Interlachen Ave., Winter Park. A12-Step group for those who love someone who is addicted to drugs will meet in Room 316A of the Mathias Family Life Center. Free. 407-619-4018.
Widowed Friends of Florida: 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays; Perkins Restaurant and Bakery, 6425 University Blvd., Winter Park. For all widowed men and women. Purchase your own meal. Free. 407-671-4330.
Laryngectomy: 4-5:30 p.m. the fourth Wednesday of the month; M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1400 S. Orange Ave. A Part of Orlando Health, Orlando. The Voice Club of Orlando, a laryngectomy support group, will meet. Call to register. Free. 321-843-2584.
Adults with Epilepsy: 6 p.m. the last Wednesday of the month; Epilepsy Association of Central Florida, 109 N. Kirkman Road, Orlando. Led by medical professionals, the group will focus on issues of day-to-day coping with seizure disorders, provide support and education. Free. 407-422-1416, Ext. 103.
Brain injury: 6:30-8:30 p.m. the second, third and fourth Wednesdays of the month; Beardall Senior Center, 800 S. Delaney Ave., Orlando. The Central Florida Brain Injury Support Group offers traumatic brain injury survivors and their caregivers educational speakers, community resource information and monthly social events to help build social skills and self-confidence. Free. 407-228-2818.
4-6 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month; Whole Foods Market, 8003 Turkey Lake Road Phillips Crossing, Orlando. The ALS support group is a resource for people with Lou Gehrig’s Disease and their families to come together to discuss the many issues brought about living with this disease. Free. 1-888-257-1717.
Cancer: 6:30-8 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, 9400 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando. For anyone who has been affected by cancer whether going through treatment or in remission, family or caretaker. Free. 407-351-1002.
10 a.m. the second Tuesday of the month; Reeves United Methodist Church, 1100 N. Ferncreek Ave., Orlando. A group for those caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease sponsored by the
6-7:30 p.m. the fourth Thursday of the month; Southwest Orlando Rosen Jewish Community Center, 11184 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando. This is a non-denominational group open to anyone who cares for or loves someone with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Free. 407-913-0083.
Recreation
8-10 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays; Whirl and Twirl Dance Club, 6949 Venture 8:05-9 a.m. Sundays; 5-5:55 p.m. Mondays; Magnolia Park, 2929 Binion Road, Apopka. Orange County Parks and Recreation Division is offering a beginning race walking program for ages 12 or older. Advance registration required. Free. 407-886-4231.
Bingo: 6:45 p.m. Mondays; Elks Lodge #1079, 12 N. Primrose Drive, Orlando. Early Bird begins at 5:45 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Elks Charity Fund. $15-$25. 407-894-1079.
Line Dancing lessons: 7 p.m. the first Monday of the month; University Club, 841 N. Park Ave., Winter Park. $5. 407-644-6149.
Walk: Jan. 18; Magnolia Park, 2929 Binion Road, Apopka. The Mid-Florida Milers Walking Club, a member of the American Volkssport Association, is sponsoring a wilderness walk. Participants will walk the Lake Apopka Loop Trail that opened in June 2012. Two distances available: 10K (6 miles) or 5K (3 miles). Start between 8:30-10 a.m. $3 for club members who want credit, free for all others. 407-695-9181.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day