Peter Proko
Verified- Editor-in-Chief, South Jersey Magazine
- Editor, South Jersey Biz
- Editor, House & Home Magazine
United States
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Articles by Peter Proko
Orlando Family Magazine
From bakeries to fine dining, a look at some of the region’s most irresistible indulgences. Pumpkin Pastry at The Glass Knife Central Florida’s dessert scene offers plenty of delicious ways to end a meal on a high note, from decadent chocolate creations and colorful tropical treats to inventive takes on beloved classics. We’ve rounded up some of the area’s most tempting sweets, highlighting everything from elegant plated desserts to over-the-top creations worth seeking out.
The 10 Spot: Breakfast Dishes
While there’s been some debate recently about whether or not breakfast is still considered the most important meal of the day, one could easily make the case it’s the most satisfying. For the early risers among us, we crafted this list of 10 dynamite breakfast dishes from across the area full of sweet and savory options that get the day off to a rousing start.
Orlando Family Magazine
At Windermere Preparatory School, a focus on academics and real-world experiences extends the educational approach. What does it take to prepare students today for an unpredictable future? At Windermere Preparatory School, the answer is multifaceted and relies on helping nurture students not just with rigorous academics, but also experiential learning opportunities that foster collaboration, communication and confidence.
The 10 Spot: Chicken Sandwiches
Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch on the go or sitting down to savor a chef-driven creation, there’s something undeniably satisfying about a great chicken sandwich. We made our way around the area in search of the standouts that leave you hungry for more and settled on these delectable offerings. From crispy classics to flavor-packed originals, these 10 chicken sandwiches are worth adding to your must-try list.
Feeling Right at Home
Back in spring training, while several of his Philadelphia Phillie teammates were off representing their respective countries in the World Baseball Classic, Jesús Luzardo was back in Clearwater keeping a watchful eye on the tournament. It’s not that Luzardo wasn’t worthy of being on a roster. In fact, he received invitations to play from both Team USA and Team Venezuela, the latter of which was his preference given his family’s strong ties to the South American country.
Orlando Family Magazine
Highlights, improvements and updates from golf clubs across the region. Golf continues to captivate players of every generation, drawing seasoned competitors, weekend enthusiasts and first-time golfers to courses across Central Florida. As the sport’s momentum continues to build, the region’s premier golf clubs are raising the bar with innovative upgrades, enhanced amenities and elevated experiences designed to meet the expectations of today’s golfers.
Orlando Family Magazine
From silky ribbons of fettucine to perfectly crafted stuffed pastas, Orlando’s Italian dining scene delivers unforgettable flavor in every bite. Whether you’re craving timeless classics or inventive modern creations, these standout dishes showcase some serious culinary talent. Dig into out definitive picks for Orlando’s 10 best pasta dishes. Green Cappellacci at Turci Pasta Turci is beloved for its housemade pastas like this standout spinach version filled with creamy ricotta and pecorino.
Best of the Shore 2026
There's something special about the shore - a unique blend of beach-town charm, beloved local traditions and unforgettable experience that keep us coming back year after year. Now that summer is in full swing, we have once again traveled from LBI to Cape May in search of the best places to eat and drink along the coast. From breakfast and Boadwalk treats to elegant dinners and lively bar scenes, we've rounded up the standout spots that make every Shore getaway a delicious one.
Best of the Shore 2026
There's something special about the shore - a unique blend of beach-town charm, beloved local traditions and unforgettable experience that keep us coming back year after year. Now that summer is in full swing, we have once again traveled from LBI to Cape May in search of the best places to eat and drink along the coast. From breakfast and Boadwalk treats to elegant dinners and lively bar scenes, we've rounded up the standout spots that make every Shore getaway a delicious one.
Orlando Family Magazine
No longer just considered as a side dish, there’s something overly satisfying about a well-made salad where the ingredients sing in perfect harmony. The best ones deliver crunch, color and bold flavors that could steal the spotlight from any main course. Our area is full of inspired and inventive offerings and these 10 standout salads prove healthy eating is far from boring.
Orlando Family Magazine
With state-of-the-art RVs and its VIP Camping Club bringing a community together, Giant Recreation World is helping customers embrace a new lifestyle. At Giant Recreation World, it’s not just about the destination. The journey is an equally important part of the adventure. A family-owned and –operated business since 1976, the company is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary as well as being the longest-running Coachmen RV dealership in the nation.
Orlando Family Magazine
A renewed focus on men’s health hopes to turn stubbornness into action. Of the biggest threats to men’s health, heart disease and cancer are atop the list, soon followed by injury, lung disease and diabetes. While no one can easily predict when or if they will be faced with these health concerns, preventative care and healthy lifestyle choices can go a long way to helping improve outcomes.
Best of the Best 2026
It’s hard work, but somebody has to do it. That is our mindset each year as we prepare to spend months seeking out the finer things in South Jersey in order to be able to present our annual Best of the Best spotlight. We ate, shopped and pampered our way through the area to highlight what we feel are the cream of the crop and this guide will serve you well as you look for everything from food recommendations to superb salons to where to host your child’s next birthday party.
Best of the Best
It’s hard work, but somebody has to do it. That is our mindset each year as we prepare to spend months seeking out the finer things in South Jersey in order to be able to present our annual Best of the Best spotlight. We ate, shopped and pampered our way through the area to highlight what we feel are the cream of the crop and this guide will serve you well as you look for everything from food recommendations to superb salons to where to host your child’s next birthday party.
Orlando Family Magazine
Get to know these wonderful ladies whose various efforts are helping to better our communities. Each year, Orlando Family Magazine takes great pride in showcasing local Super Women who are making a noticeable impact across Central Florida, and our 2026 honorees are some of the most inspiring we have encountered. This remarkable group of leading ladies aren’t motivated by the recognition they may receive for their hard work, compassion and character; they are doing what simply makes them feel good.
Orlando Family Magazine
Skin care experts weigh in on the importance of properly protecting yourself. Living in Central Florida has its many advantages including the favorable weather we enjoy for the majority of the year. But all that time spent in the sun can take its toll, especially when it comes to skin health.
Orlando Family Magazine
Red, white, circle, square and with plenty of mouthwatering toppings—here are Orlando’s best pizzas. Our love affair with pizza runs deep and so we are very excited to once again unveil our picks for some of the best you’ll find in the Greater Orlando area. These superb selections balance comfort with creativity and are just some of the reasons why the region is staking its claim as a destination for quality pizza.
Orlando Family Magazine
With state-of-the-art vehicles, unmatched customer service and a VIP Camping Club, Giant Recreation World helps you embrace the RV lifestyle with ease. At Giant Recreation World, it’s not just about the destination. The journey is an equally important part of the adventure. A family-owned and –operated business since 1976, the company boasts three locations in Winter Garden, Ormond Beach and Palm Bay.
Orlando Family Magazine
The future of advanced air mobility is being shaped right here in Central Florida. Imagine this. You’re running late to catch a flight at the airport and I-4 is slowed to a crawl. As you sit in gridlock and each passing second ticks by, your angst begins to rise. If only you could hop in a small aircraft and take to the skies, bypassing the traffic below en route to your destination.
Orlando Family Magazine
For couples struggling with infertility, it’s important to know they are not alone in their journey For many couples, having children is one of the most rewarding and gratifying things that will happen in their lives. But for countless others who so desperately want to become parents and grow a family, struggles with fertility and reproductive health can be overwhelming.
Let's Eat! - SouthJerseyMagazine.com
It’s no secret that South Jersey’s fine dining scene has garnered much attention in recent years thanks to the many celebrated chefs who continue to push the boundaries of culinary excellence. Whether it’s a new spot generating plenty of buzz or a longtime favorite that continues to impress year after year, the great diversity in cuisine and concepts has helped solidify the area as a true dining destination.
Let's Eat! - SouthJersey.com
It’s no secret that South Jersey’s fine dining scene has garnered much attention in recent years thanks to the many celebrated chefs who continue to push the boundaries of culinary excellence. Whether it’s a new spot generating plenty of buzz or a longtime favorite that continues to impress year after year, the great diversity in cuisine and concepts has helped solidify the area as a true dining destination.
Building Bright Futures
At Children’s Lighthouse in Winter Garden, research-based curriculum and a family environment give children the tools to succeed for years to come. As the Center Director of Children’s Lighthouse in Winter Garden, Shanna Wolfenden gets to witness the noticeable impact that the faith-based early learning school has on helping young minds develop and grow.
Orlando Family Magazine
The future of advanced air mobility is being shaped right here in Central Florida. Imagine this. You’re running late to catch a flight at the airport and I-4 is slowed to a crawl. As you sit in gridlock and each passing second ticks by, your angst begins to rise. If only you could hop in a small aircraft and take to the skies, bypassing the traffic below en route to your destination.
Orlando Family Magazine
It’s no secret that Orlando’s fine dining scene has garnered much attention in recent years thanksto the many celebrated chefs who continue to push the boundaries of culinary excellence. Whether it’s a new spot generating plenty of buzz or a longtime favorite that continues to impress year after year, the great diversity in cuisine and concepts has helped solidify the area as a true dining destination.
Enhanced Levels of Care
The health care industry is constantly evolving, and thanks to several notable advancements in recent years, providers are taking advantage of new tools, technology and treatments to help improve patient outcomes. These encouraging developments are having a noticeable impact in the medical world and open up new possibilities both now and in the future.
Orlando Family Magazine
With state-of-the-art RVs and its VIP Camping Club bringing a community together, Giant Recreation World is helping customers embrace a new lifestyle. At Giant Recreation World, it’s not just about the destination. The journey is an equally important part of the adventure. A family-owned and –operated business since 1976, the company boasts three locations in Winter Garden, Ormond Beach and Palm Bay.
Who’s Who in Banking 2025
Banking is an integral part of everyday life, and a positive experience can play a major part in a business’ or an individual’s success. Every year, South Jersey Biz spotlights experts in the industry who are known for being innovative, diligent and altruistic over the course of their careers. Laura Nitti, Retail Market President, TD Bank A passionate leader, Nitti brings more than two decades of experience in the industry.
Feel Good Food - SouthJerseyMagazine.com
With more frigid temperatures settling in as we inch closer to winter’s arrival, we are all seeking a little more warmth and comfort these days. So we figured what better time to explore South Jersey’s dining scene in an effort to uncover some of the best comfort foods you’ll find on area menus. No matter if it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, this list of 26 dishes serve up just what you need to help get you through the season.
Feel Good Food - SouthJersey.com
With more frigid temperatures settling in as we inch closer to winter’s arrival, we are all seeking a little more warmth and comfort these days. So we figured what better time to explore South Jersey’s dining scene in an effort to uncover some of the best comfort foods you’ll find on area menus. No matter if it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, this list of 26 dishes serve up just what you need to help get you through the season.
Executives of the Year 2025
Good leadership can come in many forms, but one shared characteristic of any successful industry leader is their ability to make meaningful connections with both employees and those they serve alike. Our Executives of the Year celebrates those in South Jersey who lead by example, empower their teams, and devise strategic approaches to create sustained growth and continued opportunity. Donna B.
Orlando Family Magazine
There’s lots to love about the Greater Orlando area, and its diversity of options—from global cuisine to aesthetic services, from shopping destinations to recreational activities—certainly ranks high on that ever-growing list.
Tech Titans - SouthJersey.com
In an ever-changing world, technology remains at the forefront of how we evolve and grow. Whether it’s a business utilizing advanced capabilities to improve efficiency and performance, or a company providing tools to keep up with modern-day demands, our professional and personal lives are tethered to technology.
Orlando Family Magazine
Proper eye health starts with routine exams and recognizing issues before symptoms arise. It would seem obvious that having good vision is imperative for our daily routines and living a high quality of life, yet too often proper eye health is an afterthought. With an aging population leading to an increase in vision loss and eye diseases, routine screenings have perhaps never been more important in helping identify issues early enough to improve one’s prognosis.
The Perfect Ingredients - SouthJerseyMagazine.com
In an industry as uncertain as the restaurant business, longevity is hardly a guarantee. But for those eateries that stand the test of time, it’s a testament to not only their quality of food, but also their connection to the community. Perhaps no one understands this better than Franco Coppola and his brother Anthony, who have made Femmina Italian Grill in Medford a dining destination for discerning food lovers from near and far.
Orlando Family Magazine
Several area notables from various walks of life describe Orlando the best they can in five words or less. There is no denying that Orlando and its surrounding area is a wonderful place to live, work and play. From the local neighborhoods where civic pride runs deep to the amusement parks and other attractions that draw crowds from near and far, The City Beautiful has something for everyone.
Orlando Family Magazine
Stanley Pond Adventure Farm provides families with fun-filled activities and the chance to grow closer. Fifteen years ago, Bob Denis had a vision to create a destination where families could connect with one another while making lasting memories.
Orlando Family Magazine
At Sakowitz Smiles Orthodontics, a patient-first approach and family-like atmosphere help build both relationships and better smiles. Dr. Scott Sakowitz, owner of Sakowitz Smiles Orthodontics, is one of Orlando’s few board-certified ortho-dontists with multiple locations in the Orlando area. He is a Diamond Pro level Invisalign provider, placing him in the top 1% providers in the country.
Orlando Family Magazine
Need a break from it all? These dynamic destinations within a day’s drive offer the perfect escape. While many of us look forward to our summer vacation all year long, the truth is that the fall season is also a wonderful time to get away and recharge the batteries. Whether looking to pamper yourself, relax by the water or take advantage of premier shopping and dining options, there are several worthy locales to visit within a day’s drive from the Greater Orlando area.
Construction Ahead
As the construction industry’s evolution continues to be driven by innovation and forward-thinking practices, there is great excitement about what lies ahead for the future, both in the short- and long-term. There has been not only a steady demand for projects—especially more diversified ones that meet modern-day needs—but also advancements in technology that are reshaping the way we build for tomorrow.
Construction Ahead - SouthJerseyBiz.net
As the construction industry’s evolution continues to be driven by innovation and forward-thinking practices, there is great excitement about what lies ahead for the future, both in the short- and long-term. There has been not only a steady demand for projects—especially more diversified ones that meet modern-day needs—but also advancements in technology that are reshaping the way we build for tomorrow.
A Dynamic Destination - SouthJerseyMagazine.com
When asked what’s been the most rewarding aspect of owning and operating a restaurant firmly established as a dining destination in South Jersey, Phil Brunozzi doesn’t need much time to craft a response. “Without a doubt, it’s the friends and relationships that we’ve made. The strangers that you now call friends and have dinner with or go to parties with—those relationships have been so extensive,” he says.
Best of the Shore 2025
Nothing beats summertime at the Jersey Shore, whether you’re fortunate enough to head down every weekend, are planning a two-week vacation or hope to sprinkle in as many day trips as possible between now and Labor Day. Visitors of all ages love to head back to their favorite spots that have become traditions among their families and friends, but it’s also fun to discover the new restaurants, bakeries and shops that have come along since last year.
Power 50 2025 - SouthJersey.com
A business landscape as rich and varied as South Jersey’s needs all kinds of talent, expertise and leadership guiding its myriad components to reach its full potential and support the ongoing success that makes this region a great place to work and play. Those leaders include educators and executives, CEOs and chairs, and all kinds of dreamers and doers who keep the big picture front and center.
Best of the Shore 2025
Nothing beats summertime at the Jersey Shore, whether you’re fortunate enough to head down every weekend, are planning a two-week vacation or hope to sprinkle in as many day trips as possible between now and Labor Day. Visitors of all ages love to head back to their favorite spots that have become traditions among their families and friends, but it’s also fun to discover the new restaurants, bakeries and shops that have come along since last year.
Stepping Up to the Plate
For a good portion of last year, the Philadelphia Phillies looked like one of Major League Baseball’s best teams, poised to make a deep playoff run and avenge the prior two seasons, which saw them bow out in the World Series and National League Championship Series, respectively. The team sent a franchise-record eight players to the All-Star Game in July and by the time the season ended a few months later, the Phillies had captured their first division title since 2011.
Orlando Family Magazine
A roundup of what’s new and notable at the region’s top golf clubs Golf is a game enjoyed by young and old alike, and its popularity seems to only grow with each passing year. With so many players, whether skilled or new to the sport, Central Florida’s top golf clubs are doing their best to accommodate the demand. We once again spoke with clubs from across the region to see what new things are taking place to improve conditions, offerings and the overall experience.
Best of the Shore 2025
Nothing beats summertime at the Jersey Shore, whether you’re fortunate enough to head down every weekend, are planning a two-week vacation or hope to sprinkle in as many day trips as possible between now and Labor Day. Visitors of all ages love to head back to their favorite spots that have become traditions among their families and friends, but it’s also fun to discover the new restaurants, bakeries and shops that have come along since last year.
Stepping Up to the Plate
For a good portion of last year, the Philadelphia Phillies looked like one of Major League Baseball’s best teams, poised to make a deep playoff run and avenge the prior two seasons, which saw them bow out in the World Series and National League Championship Series, respectively. The team sent a franchise-record eight players to the All-Star Game in July and by the time the season ended a few months later, the Phillies had captured their first division title since 2011.
Best of the Best 2025
There’s lots to love about South Jersey, and its diversity of options—from global cuisine to aesthetic services, from shopping destinations to recreational activities—certainly ranks high on that ever-growing list. Having so much right in our backyard can also make it a little overwhelming to decide where to go and what to do, though, which is why we’re delighted to share our annual roundup highlighting some can’t-miss places adding to the vibrancy and variety of the region we call home.
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