An Evening at the Palace is one of UCP of Central Florida’s largest annual fundraisers. Held at the Buena Vista Palace Hotel & Spa, many of Central Florida’s top community and business leaders come together to help raise awareness and funds for support, education and therapy programs that help children with and without special needs reach their full potential. At the event, guests enjoy a fabulous four-course gourmet meal, complimentary wine and spirits, fabulous silent and live auction and Broadway entertainment. In addition, UCP presents two awards, the Jack Holloway Star of Gratitude... Read more

After almost a year of operating without a director, the East Orlando Chamber of Commerce recently announced they have brought on Elaine Hinsdale, a former public relations executive and Lockheed Martin spokesperson, to lead the group. With more than 600 members and businesses east of Semoran Boulevard, the EOCC is responsible for an area that includes everything from the growing Alafaya Trail and University of Central Florida corridor, through Waterford Lakes and even the new medical city in Lake Nona, among others. Elaine Hinsdale, executive director of the East Orlando Chamber of Commerce.... Read more

Law enforcement officials, city and county commissioners and local community leaders recently gathered at an anti-crime symposium where Attorney General Bill McCollum and Senator Victor Crist, along with a team of experts, unveiled a pilot program to empower and organize communities to address issues which are often precursors to criminal activity. The symposium, Strategies for Safe and Sustainable Communities, was held in Orlando and brought together an impressive group of more than 150 community leaders from six surrounding counties. “This is an excellent, comprehensive anti-crime program... Read more

Nothing lights up the night sky quite like a fireworks display. Dazzling colors paint the atmosphere - each explosion a unique brush stroke on the black canvas. Fireworks can turn any backyard cookout into an exciting festival of light and sound. They can put a smile on kids of all ages and make any special moment a memory. Fourth of July is arguably the most popular time for fireworks shows throughout the nation. This year, make sure your artistic display is safe for everyone involved, including yourself. Fireworks always light up the night sky July 4. To ensure your safety, experts warn of common... Read more

Lightning strikes produce more damage than any other weather hazard in the United States. The average storm can produce hundreds of bolts in just a few minutes. Family-owned McLean Lightning Protection has been protecting the Central Florida area from lightning strikes since 1984. Working with hundreds of satisfied and safe clients over the years has produced a lot of similar questions for John Cole, owner of McLean Lightning Protection. Cole sat down with Insight to answer some common questions as we move into the typically stormy season. 1. What exactly is lightning protection and why do I... Read more