2016 Orlando Pride Parade Review

Written By: Nathan Wertheimer

Orlando, FL – This parade is an annual tradition in Orlando to show support for the LGBT community. Straight people were also are welcome to participate too. This is one unique parade in Downtown Orlando one should not miss.

Come out with Pride (COWP) started in 2005 and which has brought people together ever since the first events were held in Downtown Orlando. Around the United States there are seminar LGBT events like Orlando’s COWP. But Orlando was not the first city in America to have these types of events geared towards the LGBT community. COWP is usually held the first weekend in October.

This year’s parade was reschedule because of Hurricane Matthew and moved to the second weekend in November 2016. Many people watched and participated in the parade. There is a difference between the Pride Parade and the Florida Citrus Parade. The Florida Citrus Parade is geared towards college football along with their corporate sponsors. The Pride Parade revolves around the LGBT community and supports their causes. Both parade reflect a different experiences.

Parking in downtown was a little tight this year because there were few more events than normal. There is the Veteran’s Day Parade in the Morning and the Pride Parade and WMMO Downtown Concert Series starting at the same time. Most people arrived early for the best parking spaces in and around Downtown Orlando.

Many people look for the best places to sit and or stand for the parade. Certain areas of the parade route will have 5-10 deep full of people. The most crowded areas are the middle and end of the parade route around Central Blvd, Magnolia Ave, and Robinson Street.

There are many sights and sounds of the Pride Parade to take in. Some of the floats one saw were the Orlando Gay Chorus, The Center for LGBT, Orlando City Soccer Club, WFTV Channel 9, City of Orlando, Orange County, State and Local elected officials, Disney Volunteers, Universal Employees, Walmart, Target, Delta Airlines, T-Mobile, Watermark Publication, and much more.

Although the COWP Parade started at 4pm, it did not end until around 7:45pm at night. It started getting dark close to 5:45pm in Downtown Orlando. Not many floats had lights for the nighttime experience. It was more enjoyable during the daytime hours. Next year hopefully, they will move it back to 1pm in the afternoon. It is anticipated to have the same number of floats for year in October 2017. The crowds were excited to have the unique experience of this wonderful parade.

Finally, this is one parade you and your family will not want to miss. So mark your calendar down for October 2017. We hope to see you there. For more information go to www.comeoutwithpride.com

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Photos courtesy by icflorida.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo Tip Series – Photographing Different Angles of Your Subject Matter

Written by Nathan Wertheimer

Welcome back to our next topic in our Photo Tip Series. Today, I am writing about taking different angles of your subject matter. These are easy techniques that most photographers can use when out in the field and or at home. Most people are tired at looking at the same angles most photographers use, which is normal stand up angle. My college photography class professor said one should excite the viewer in your photo by taking a chance on a wide variety of angles. Here is the break down of the different angles such as natural standing up angle, the bird view, ground angle, kneeling angle, and sitting angle.

The natural standing up photographing angle is used for many reasons. This photography angle is the basic technique for beginner photographers. Even a child can use this technique. There is nothing more to describe about this technique.

The next angle is called the bird view angle which sounds interesting because you get the camera as high as you can put it over your head, or mount the camera on a mono-pod, and or use a step stool. One will use this method in crowds, protests, marching bands, and parades. When one cannot see anything over people’s heads, try this angle technique. When photographing this position, put the camera focus on auto or manual put the lens at infinity. Check your shutter speed and aperture before taking the photo. I recommend keeping the aperture at F8 because it covers your subject in focus. Look for photojournalist using this technique in the field. These photographers are easy to spot with a lot of equipment around there neck.

It is all about the angle. Most people don’t think about this angle when photographing certain subject matter works with wide angle. I recommend using this angle on buildings, wide exhibit displays, parade floats, vehicles, some amateur sporting events. This angle is called the floor angle. Basically, put your camera on the ground and tilt it up a little. When photographing this position, put the camera focus on auto or manual put the lens at infinity. Check your shutter speed and aperture before taking the photo. I recommend keeping the aperture at F8 because it covers your subject in focus, which is the same as the bird view angle. One will be amazed and the creativity you captured in your photo.

Another good angle is called the kneeling angle. This gives the photographer a better perspective on their subject matter. This technique is used for photographing individual vehicles, football games, soccer games, parades, and children. All you to do is kneel on your knees. This is not recommended for photographers who have a hard time getting back up. It is recommended that a person use knee pads when kneeling for long periods of time.

The next angle technique is called the sitting angle. Many people have used the sitting angle at weddings, children plays, sporting events, and more. This angle is very limited because you can’t move around and have to photograph from one sitting position. Just try to make the most out of this situation.

Technique Disclaimer: All of these types of angles should be used at your own risk. Some of these angle techniques might be hard for photographers. Please do not attempt using any of these angle techniques if not able to move in certain positions and are not mobile person.

Thank you for reading this Photo Tip Series article and check back again for more Photography Tips in the future.

 

Central Florida Citizen’s Police Academies

Written by Nathan Wertheimer

Orlando, FL – Have you ever wanted to be a cop or is interested in Law Enforcement? This is your opportunity to get an inside view about what goes on in a Law Enforcement agency. There are many cities and counties who provide a free Citizen’s Law Enforcement class, which is not for certification. Plus, this looks good on your resume too! Taking this class is a stepping-stone into Law Enforcement.

The class requirements are minimal. One have must pass a background verification test without major criminal conventions. An individual must have interest into learning about Law Enforcement. There are no fitness requirements because this is only a class and not a real police academy for certification. Many people who attend this class go on to real Police Academy because they have an urge to service and protect.

I have been to personally attend quite a few Citizens’ Law Enforcement Academies. Each Police agencies have different Law Enforcement class content. Plus, some agencies take a class to the gun range to try out the officer’s firearms and weapons. Some students have been given a chance to even fire a Tazer and or get tased. This is all voluntary in the class.

Besides learning in a classroom, there are some field trips taken to the aviation unit at the airport, courthouse, county jail, training facilities, and gun range. These places are rare opportunities for citizens to see Law Enforcement behind the scenes. One might be surprised what goes on.

After going through the entire class, there is a graduation ceremony and party at the end. Each student will receive a certificate of completion from that agency. The certificate is great for framing and to place on the in your home or office wall. Once you have completed one agencies Citizen’s Police Academy one will want to participate in more or become a volunteer with that Law Enforcement agency. Some agencies have Citizen Police Academy Alumni Club as a part of their Citizens Police Academy.

There is a lot of course content that is covered at one of many Citizens’ Police Academies. Here are is list of free Citizen’s Law Enforcement Academies:

Altamonte Springs Police Department – Citizen’s Public Safety Academy
http://www.altamonte.org/index.aspx?NID=428

Daytona Beach Police Department – Citizen’s Police Academy
http://www.codb.us/index.aspx?NID=636

Kissimmee Police Academy – Citizen’s Police Academy
http://www.kissimmee.org/government/police-department/crime-prevention/citizen-police-academy

Osceola County Sheriff’s Office – Citizen’s Academy
http://www.osceolasheriff.org/sheriff/113-14385-14386/citizens_academy.cfm

Orange County Sheriff’s Office – Civilian Police Academy
https://www.ocso.com/Public-Interest/Civilian-Teen-Academy

Orlando Police Department – Citizen’s Police Academy
http://www.cityoforlando.net/police/citizen-police-academy/

Seminole County Sheriff’s Office – Community Law Enforcement Academy
https://www.seminolesheriff.org/page.aspx?id=39

Winter Garden Police Department – Citizen’s Police Academy
http://www.wgpd.com/community/citizens_police_academy

Winter Park Police Department – Citizen’s Police Academy

Citizens Police Academy

Finally, this is a great opportunity to see Law Enforcement behind the scenes for your self. These classes are taught throughout the year. Take advantage of this great learning experience. If you like this review article, then like it on our Otownfun WordPress account. For more great event content please check us out at www.otownfun.com

 

The 2016 43rd Annual Daytona Turkey Run Family Fun For Everyone

Press Release from the Daytona Turkey Run

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (November 3, 2016) – The 43rd Daytona Turkey Run welcomes fans of all ages to celebrate their love of classic cars. The largest combined car show and swap meet in the U.S. is a four-day show that kicks off at 8 a.m. Thanksgiving day. At the Daytona Speedway, it runs through Sunday, November 27th.

“We are thrilled to bring some exciting special features to the Turkey Run this year. There is truly something for the entire family,” says Barbara Kelly, General Manager of the Daytona Turkey Run.

Guests can look forward to enjoying:

Ø The 2016 Daytona Turkey Run Dream Build! “The 2015 inaugural Dream Build was a great success and we look forward to adding a little twist to it this year,” says Jennifer Labonte, Director of Marketing for the Daytona Turkey Run. This year we are teaming up with long-time Turkey Run fans, Complete Auto Body out of Maryland to restore a ’55 Chevy 3100 Short Bed truck. All parts from the restoration process are from Daytona Turkey Run vendors, once again proving you can find everything you need to restore and build a car at the Turkey Run. The Grand Reveal will be held on Thursday at 11AM. Guests will also have the opportunity to own a piece of Turkey Run history when the Dream Build truck is auctioned on Saturday at 12PM. The entire buying, building, and reveal process will be filmed and featured on a special episode of South Beach Classics, starring Ted Vernon on the Velocity channel.

The 43rd Annual Daytona Turkey Run. Dream Cars and the Dream Build. p/2 of 2

Ø Meet Butch Patrick, “Eddie Munster” from the Munsters. Also, see the Munster Koach and other memorabilia from the show.

Ø Mecum Auctions Mobile Experience. Experience first-hand what it feels like to be in the middle of a fast-paced Mecum auction through simulations and hands on activities!

Ø Meet Courtney Hansen, automotive host and personality on Friday from 8am-4pm.

Ø See the Black Beauty #2 as seen on The Green Hornet TV show.

Ø Meet Ted Vernon from South Beach Classics, Thursday-Sunday at 12PM.

Ø Little Gobbler’s Play Zone. Kids will have a blast in bounce houses, an obstacle course, inflatable basketball game and more. All Play Zone activities are free of charge.

The Daytona Turkey Run is open to the public and features more than 6,000 vintage, classic, muscle cars, race cars and trucks on display and for sale, as well as a massive swap meet in which vendors sell and trade hard-to-find auto parts and accessories. There is also an Artisan Alley with fashion and art and a full midway of delicious food vendors. More than 150,000 attended the 43rd Daytona Turkey Run.

The 43rd Daytona Turkey Run is sponsored in part by Bright House Networks, Scootaround and Mecum Auctions. Admission is $15 Thursday through Saturday and $10 on Sunday with free parking. Children under 11 are free. Show hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday. Free parking and shuttles are available at the Daytona Speedway all four days and at Embry Riddle University on Friday and Saturday.

The Spring Turkey Run dates, March 24-26, 2017 were also just released.

For more information about the Daytona Turkey Run, visit http://www.turkeyrun.com

 

 

 

2016 River of Life Church presents Christmas in the Country Preview

Deltona, FL — This Holiday Season don’t miss this completely unique Christmas Celebration in Volusia County. The Christmas in the Country has a variety of activities for all ages. This event is an annual tradition for most families and it is free and open to the general public.

Here are some sights and activities you will see at this year’s Christmas in the Country event. The event producer recommends starting with a hayride through a Christmas Wonderland and lights display. Next, check out the meet and greet with Santa Claus. Plus, you can have your photo taken with Santa too. Relax and enjoy some nice hot cocoa. Many visitors will be roast marshmallows over a bonfire on the beautiful lakefront. The lakefront is quite a scene. One cannot forget seeing the Christmas Village and nativity displays. There is a new attraction this year at Christmas in the Country. You’ll find your way through a large maze for the first time at this event. Watch and learn how different Christmas treats are made and a scavenger hunt to win prizes. Create your very own holiday ornament to take home. Let the kids run around the “Forest of Fun Play Area” with plenty of space and 3 separate play sets.

If you’re hungry they have grilled hot dogs for only a $1 Donation. Plus, you can roast your own marshmallows over the bonfire for free. Opening night starts on Friday, November 25, 2016, from 6pm – 8:30pm. This event will run on Fridays and Saturdays from 6pm – 8:30pm on these dates November 25 & 26, December 2 & 3, 9 & 10, 16 – 18, 2016. Note: This event is handicap accessible.

Directions to River of Life Church in Deltona, Florida. The church is located at 130 Garfield Road, Deltona, Florida 32725. This place is just a quick drive from Orlando. Take I-4 going eastbound toward Deltona/Enterprise at Exit 108. Then turn left onto Debary Avenue. Go straight on Debary Avenue, which turns, into Doyle Road. Take a right onto Garfield Road. Go straight and take a right onto the church property. If you close to Old Titusville Road you have gone too far. Turn around and look for the church on the left.

If you have any questions please visit www.rolchristmas.com ,email rolwebperson@yahoo.com , and or call 386-860-1234.

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2016 Seminole State College Fine Arts Faculty Exhibit Review

Review Written by Nathan Wertheimer

Sanford, FL – Each year at Seminole State College, the Fine Arts Faculty Art Exhibit to show off their masterpieces for students and the general public to view. Now is your chance to view their best work. This year’s fine arts faculty exhibiting includes works of art by Bert Bogdany, Christopher Bolton, Jennifer Copp, Giuseppe Corazzina, Sandra Koop, Viktoryia McGrath, Jay Spalding, and Larry Vienneau. These eight college fine art instructors teach photography, painting, drawing, ceramics, and printmaking. Besides teaching they also create their own artistic inspired pieces on their own time.

When arriving on Seminole State College property to visit this art exhibit, you will want to park closest to the Performing and Fine Arts Building. Parking is free. The college art gallery is open Monday thru Thursday 10am – 3pm and during intermission theater performances. This fine arts exhibition runs from November 10, 2016 thru December 8, 2016. The art gallery admission is free to visit, but they kindly ask for any kind of monetary donation to keep the college art gallery open and running strong.

When entering the college art gallery you will notice many pieces on the wall and on pedestals too. My eye was drawn towards the kid with the donut painting hung on the left sidewall. This oil on canvas painting is measures approximately 60” x 60” entitled “Llyod 6” and was created by Studio Arts Adjunct Professor Viktoryia McGrath, who is an art instructor at SSC. The paining is a contemporary portrait of a child. The overall painting depicts a boy with his eyes closed eating a donut. This young boy depicted in the painting is the artist own son. The color scheme for the painting has many colors such as tan, medium blue, yellow, white, and gray. This little boy has a face a mother could love. For more information on her work please check out www.viktoryiamcgrath.com

Another Studio Arts Professor is Jay Spalding who created the “Green Fish, Green Tea Tea Pot.” This art piece was located on a pedestal by the large window in the corner. Spalding referred to his creation as an abstract teapot. He said, “I tried to experiment with the subject matter.” This teapot has multi colors glaze used for the base and is accented by the lime green contrasting color for the top and bottom. I asked him if this piece is functional and his replied it was to give the appearance of functionality. Many viewers will notice the lime green fish shape on the lid hand along with the back fish fin and the rounded spout to complete this art piece. The fish is not a religious representation for this piece although it could be if the viewer wanted too. For more information on his work please check out www.facebook.com/jayspaldingclayworks .

The next Studio Arts Adjunct Professor is Christopher Bolton who created a black and white photo series of his work when he went on vacation to Mexico City in August 2016. These are a 16” x 20” framed and matted black and white and are printed on Ilford fiber gelatin silver prints with a selenium tone. Each print has archival quality to last a long time. Outof the photo series that caught my eye was the photo entitled “Group Portrait.” Bolton said these five guys in the photos are Mexican communications workers sitting on park bench relaxing. Viewers will also notice that there is a stone pattern above the group portrait heads. I asked Bolton what type of camera did he use to capture these wonderful photos and he said he used a Nikon F100 film camera with a 35mm fixed lens.

Plus, beside his Mexico City photo series, Bolton created a special feature photo series inside the art gallery entitled “Pulse and After” which was beautifully documented by photos in a photo slideshow on the aftermath of the 2016 Pulse Shooting in Orlando. This 6-minute photo slideshow hash 41 various photos from scenes around the nightclub, the Dr. Phillips Center memorial service, and much more. The viewer can get a true perspective of what it was like surround the story of the post of Pulse. Also, this is one art piece one will want to watch at the art gallery.

The next Seminole State College Art Gallery featured artist is Margaret Noel. Opening reception is on Thursday, January 19, 2017 from 5-7pm. Her art exhibit will run from January 19 – February 20, 2017. For more information go to:
www.seminolestate.edu/arts/events/gallery

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2016 Central Florida Vegfest in Orlando Review

Review Written by Nathan Wertheimer 

Orlando, FL – This event was held on October 22, 2016, from 11am – 5pm,at Festival Park. Vegfest attracts many types of people of all ages and backgrounds. No one is single out because they are a meat eaters or a vegetarians.

When traveling to the Central Florida Vegfest was an easy drive. The event location sits between Colonial Drive and the 408 Toll Road. There is plenty of parking for this event. There is preferred parking close to the event on the property it will cost you $5.00 per vehicle to park. Also, there is free parking at Colonial Plaza Marketplace. It is just a quick walk over to the event area. Some side properties also have paid parking at their locations too.

What you will find at this event are many mom and pop service providers and vendors. Some of the crafts vendors make homemade furniture, jewelry, hand soaps, beauty supplies, and much more. Prices of these goods are very reasonable. One of the vendors promoting feed the homeless was giving a vegetarian tacos with a donation. These tacos were made with mash potatoes, beans, spinach, and onions, rolled in a corn tortilla shell. It was quite tasty. Planet Smoothie was given out free samples of their banana, kiwi, and Strawberry smoothies. New Moon Market was given out organic juice bar samples. One organic popsicles stand was selling a variety of popsicle flavors.

There were other vendors at this event promoting to specials causes and events such as, stop killing the cattle, Black Bear awareness campaign, Save the Manatees Club, Shen Yun Show, Plan Parenthood, Migrant Farmers, Rick Sing campaign, pet adoption, and much more.

If food is your thing then check out the Vegetarian Food Court. There were some unique items on the food menu. Many people bought the carrot dogs, which was inspired by the hot dog without the meat. Some other food vendors were selling vegetarian tacos, mixed vegetable plates, and organic desserts. Prices on the food was very reasonable between $5-$10 depending on what you ordered. The popular food vendors had long lines.

There was great music performed by Sad Lady Cowboy, Claudio Matta, Conflicting Motive Band, John John Brown, Will Forver, Raspberry Pie, and Matt Welsh. Most people listen to the music while they ate at the dining area. Many of these musicians are up in coming while waiting on their big break.

Finally, there were so many vendors, entertainment, and wonderful things to experience at see at this year’s Central Florida VegFest event. One needs to mark their calendar for next year’s event in October 2017. For more information go to www.centralfloridavegfest.com .

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Photos courtesy by icflorida.com