




This month’s issue is all about the Men We Admire—those who lead with heart, hustle, and humility. From community builders to quiet leaders, we’re proud to spotlight the men who show up, lift others up, and leave things better than they found them. They deserve to be celebrated, and this issue is our way of saying thank you. We’re also celebrating something else—something big. Starting with this issue, you’ll notice a fresh new name at the top of our magazine: Park View City Magazine. After years of growth and expansion into new neighborhoods and partnerships, we wanted a name that better reflects the broad, beautiful view of the communities we serve. Same mission, same heart—just with a little more room to grow. And with that growth comes another exciting shift. I’m proud to officially announce that Wendy Bloom has stepped into the role of Co-Publisher and Publication Director. Wendy has been instrumental in the energy and execution behind so many of our events, collaborations, and editorial magic. She’s been my right hand, and now she’s also the best person to help lead us into this next chapter. While you may not see me quite as much day to day, know that I’m still here—rooting for our partners, supporting our mission, and celebrating all the amazing things this team is building. Here’s to strong women, great men, and bold new beginnings.
With gratitude,
BRANDE BROWN, PUBLISHER @WINTERPARKCITYMAGAZINE
June 2025
PUBLISHER
Brande Brown | brande.brown@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Wendy Bloom | wendy.bloom@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Allston McEwan | allston.mcewan@citylifestyle.com
INTERNS
Nicole Levitt | hellowpcm@gmail.com
Brianna Streeter | hellowpcm@gmail.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Leah Germain | leah@casecreativeco.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sarah Grafton, Briana Streeter, Allston McEwan, Nicole Levitt, Josh and Marie Ojeda
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Amanda Kossina, Josh and Marie Ojeda
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Adam Finley
Proverbs 3:5-6
I N S T A G R A M C o m e F o l l o w U s
E V E N T B R I T E
Chris Hardiman, Michael Collantes, and Tony Jenkins, shaping the future of Central Florida with
Funding; April Drop
at Lamp & Shade 7: David and Elvira
celebrating the launch of the BILF Podcast by Mara Dorne.
Mara Dorne launches The BILF (Boss I’d Like to Follow) podcast. Not your typical boss-talker, this podcast is for both winners and dreamers alike. BILFs who range from top CEOs, influential leaders, and celebrities, to the single mom with a million-dollar idea. But all guests must have one thing in common: They also need to be the type of boss people LIKE to follow.
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Get fresh eggs at home—without the full-time commitment. Cozy Coop Rentals sets you up with a coop, hens, feed, and supplies. They’ll even stop by twice a month for cleaning and care. You get the fun of backyard chickens with none of the stress. Month-tomonth rentals make it flexible, easy, and perfect for trying something new.
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In a world of constant financial flux, adaptability and bold thinking drive exceptional client success.
Financial management involves preparing for an unpredictable future. Market volatility, economic fluctuations, political instability, and technological disruptions contribute to constant change. Recognizing the rarity of perfect decisions and the importance of adaptability is crucial for effective planning.
Traditional methods may fall short in a constantly changing environment. Adaptive financial management is designed to be flexible and responsive. Key components include:
• Continuous Monitoring and Review: Regularly updating plans to reflect current conditions.
ARTICLE BY SARAH GRAFTON
• Scenario Analysis: Developing multiple scenarios and contingency plans.
• Dynamic Asset Allocation: Adjusting portfolios in response to market movements.
• Risk Management: Implementing strategies to safeguard against potential losses.
To thrive, financial professionals must cultivate flexibility, resilience, and innovation:
• Flexibility: Being open to change and ready to adapt plans.
• Resilience: Building strategies that can endure market downturns and economic shocks.
• Innovation: Leveraging new technologies and finding creative strategies.
Uncertainty creates opportunities. Market volatility can lead to attractive investments, and technological advancements offer new tools for enhancing strategies. Staying adaptable and innovative helps turn uncertainty into an advantage.
Adaptive financial management aims to deliver superior outcomes by preserving assets, growing wealth, and pursuing financial goals despite uncertainties. Embracing flexibility, resilience, and innovation provides investors with confidence in their financial future.
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
Sarah E. Grafton
MANAGING PARTNER, PRIVATE WEALTH ADVISOR
Sarah has been a dedicated member of the financial industry since 2007, continuing a proud family legacy rooted in connection and care for families’ financial well-being.
Her leadership and service have earned her numerous honors, including the U.S. Presidential Service Award (2016 & 2017), I-4 Business Magazine’s “Leader of the Year,” and Orlando Business Journal’s 40 Under 40.
Sarah also serves on the boards of Runway to Hope, the Park Avenue District, the Albin Polasek Museum, and advisory boards for Winter Park and AdventHealth Winter Park—reflecting her deep commitment to community enrichment.
At home, she and her husband, Jason Siegel, enjoy a busy life with their four children, who are active in school and sports. Together, they prioritize family values and community involvement.
Licensed in Series 7, Series 66, and Life Insurance through LPL Financial, Sarah combines expertise with heart, empowering clients and giving back at every step.
REDEFINING SUCCESS THROUGH SERVICE AND INTEGRITY
A storyteller by nature and community builder by heart, Justin Williams is on a mission to shift perspectives and spark personal growth. As the founder of Curating The Shift podcast and Curated Ascent—a lifestyle brand aimed at promoting wellness, identity, and cultural curiosity— Williams is creating platforms for deeper connection and mindful exploration.
His background in hospitality gave him a front-row seat to human interaction, sharpening his instinct for what brings people together. Now, Williams merges that experience with his passion for storytelling and personal development, creating content and experiences that inspire others to tap into their best selves.
Raised in a multicultural household, Williams’ worldview was shaped early on by diversity. That lens now guides everything he does—from thoughtful interviews to community events designed to amplify underrepresented voices.
A Winter Park resident who loves the town’s artistic pulse, Williams believes in leading with authenticity. “Curated Ascent is about building a life that embraces growth and balance,” he says. “We’re all on a journey to shift—my mission is to help make that journey intentional.”
He’s also a committed mentor, helping young creatives and professionals find purpose, define their brand, and walk in alignment with their values. For Williams, success is measured in impact—not applause.”
For more than two decades, Tony Jenkins has been at the forefront of advancing health care, equity, and community impact in Central Florida. As Market President for Florida Blue Central Florida, the state’s leading health insurer, Jenkins oversees strategic operations that affect the well-being of millions. But beyond the business metrics, his leadership is defined by empathy, collaboration, and a deep-rooted belief in using corporate platforms to uplift communities.
Jenkins began his career in 2001 in Human Resources at Florida Blue and quickly rose through the ranks, cultivating a leadership style centered on people, purpose, and presence. Today, he not only leads Florida Blue’s operations across Central Florida but also serves as a bridge between business and community—shaping partnerships in education, mental health, economic development, and the arts. He actively serves on the boards of the Orlando Economic Partnership, Florida Citrus Sports, United Way, and the Winter Park Institute.
Raised by his mother and grandmother in Jacksonville, Jenkins went on to attend Morris Brown College in Atlanta, where he developed the discipline and drive
that now defines his leadership. A former college athlete, he maintains a passion for fitness and travel and credits his early experience in food and beverage at Disney for his love of exploring new restaurants. Jenkins is especially proud of his mentoring work and is intentional about opening doors for young professionals of color.
“Treat others the way they want to be treated,” he says. “Lead with empathy, live with humility, and measure success by the lives you’ve touched along the way.”
When it comes to shaping the fabric of Winter Park, Chris Hardiman is making a lasting impression on multiple fronts. As the leader of the country’s largest partnership branch for Guaranteed Rate—one of the top 4 independent mortgage banks in the U.S.—Hardiman and his team helped over 650 families achieve homeownership last year alone. But his footprint goes well beyond finance.
A direct investor in both commercial and residential real estate, Hardiman is also a partner in two McLaren dealerships, including one right here in Winter Park, where he graciously
hosted our Men of Impact cover shoot. While his professional resume is expansive, his true focus is much closer to home: “I prefer to spend any free time with my wife Suphattra and our two kids, Adelin and Callen. Their sports and activities keep us very busy.” When they do find a spare afternoon without a practice or game, the Hardimans enjoy time in Winter Park walking the avenue, playing in the park, going to Winter Park Village, and the Winter Park Boat Tour, as well as occasional visits to Disney.
Since settling in Winter Park in 2018, Hardiman has embraced the community fully—serving on the board of the Winter Park Rotary Club and chairing its “Dictionary Project,” which delivers a dictionary annually to every third grader in the local public school system.
Despite launching his career during the financial crisis, Hardiman credits his versatile education and resilience for helping him thrive. His advice to young men today? “There is no prize worth sacrificing your integrity for… Stand by your word, work hard when you’re young, and build a life based on doing the right thing.
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Raised in Winter Park, Chef Michael Collantes has brought his Michelinstarred vision full circle, returning to his hometown after honing his craft under culinary luminaries like Joël Robuchon, Eric Ripert, and Masa Takayama. Today, Collantes leads 86 Hospitality, a dynamic group of restaurants including the Winter Park’s first Michelin-starred restaurant Soseki, Sushi Saint, Bar Kada, and the newly opened Chez Les Copains.
At the heart of Collantes’ mission is a commitment to community. “Through Soseki, we’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with local farmers, artisans, potters, and even our designers,” he explains. This spirit of connection extends to his work with 4Roots Farm and participation in charitable events like Cows & Cabs and Runway to Hope. His path hasn’t been without challenges. As an independent restaurateur, Collantes has weathered the storm of a rapidly evolving industry. “Grit has become essential,” he says. “During struggle, it’s important to reach out, stay grounded in prayer, and lean on your support system.”
Collantes’ advice to the next generation is grounded in experience: “Pursue excellence relentlessly in whatever field
you choose. Focus on your skills, stay true to your journey, and allow yourself to enjoy the process—not just the destination.”
Today, alongside his wife and two young children, Collantes continues to shape Orlando’s culinary landscape, with exciting new ventures like Perla’s Pizza and Cocktail and Nomikai by Sushi Saint in Icon Park and his collaboration with 4Roots Farm. His journey is a testament to resilience, purpose, and the power of returning home.
Craig Russell made history as Winter Park’s first Black City Commissioner in over 130 years; and, at 44, he is the youngest to hold the position. A lifelong resident of Winter Park, Russell’s personal journey is deeply intertwined with his community.
“Winter Park gave me stability and a sense of safety,” he reflects, and now, as a teacher, coach, and elected official, he is committed to giving back to the city that shaped him.
In addition to his role as City Commissioner, Russell teaches weightlifting and coaches wrestling and football at his alma mater, Winter Park High School. His connection to the community is clear: “I’m proud to return home after earning my degrees, and I want to help future generations experience the same pride I have for this place,” he shares.
Russell’s dedication to service extends beyond education. Together with his wife, Kate Demory, he co-founded Army of Angels, a nonprofit focused on providing essential support to unhoused youth and families facing adversity. “We treat those in need the way we would our own children,” he says, noting that the nonprofit has provided necessities such as clothing, shelter, and food to those in need, particularly during the pandemic.
Russell believes leadership is about lifting others up. “Service is a mindset, not an action,” he advises. He encourages young people to lead by example and to use their talents for the benefit of others. His vision for Winter Park is one of inclusivity, compassion, and continued community engagement.
Through his work, Russell exemplifies the power of service and the lasting impact of integrity-driven leadership.
Our 2025 Men of Impact are shaping Central Florida through purpose-driven work in our Winter Park community. Each man blends professional success with personal integrity, using their platforms to uplift others, foster community, and drive lasting impact. From boardrooms to podcasts, their influence is felt far beyond titles—they are mentors, visionaries, and changemakers. Their stories reflect dedication, resilience, and a deep commitment to giving back. Through mentoring, innovation, and service, they’re redefining what it means to lead with heart and purpose.
WARM DAYS, COOL DADS, AND UNFORGETTABLE FAMILY ADVENTURES
ARTICLE BY NICOLE LEVITT
There’s something about dads in the summertime. Maybe it’s the return of long days and open weekends, or the rhythm of schoolfree schedules, but come June, something shifts. The polo shirts come out, the grill gets dusted off, and suddenly, Dad is in his element.
It’s not that he hasn’t been around all year—he has, in his quiet, steady way—but there’s a different kind of energy in the air when summer hits. This is the season when dads become the MVPs of car rides, backyard games, and impromptu adventures. The days stretch out, and suddenly there’s time for the kinds of moments that become family legend: an accidental detour that leads to the best tacos you’ve ever had, a five-dollar kite that actually takes flight, a cannonball contest that gets a little too competitive.
June brings Father’s Day, of course, but most dads won’t ask for much. Maybe a morning to sleep in. Maybe a new pair of socks that don’t mysteriously vanish. But what means the most isn’t wrapped in paper—it’s time. Time with the people they love, in the places they love, doing the simplest things.
A Sunday morning might turn into an easy brunch on Park Avenue, where the coffee’s strong and the pancakes are piled high. Or maybe it’s a stroll through the farmers’ market with a kid on his shoulders and a dog at his side, pausing for fresh juice and a chat about which tomatoes look best. Some families might surprise him with a boat tour on Lake Osceola, a slow, scenic glide past boathouses and mossy trees. Others might choose to canoe the quiet corners of Winter Park’s canals. The thing about dads in summer: they don’t need fanfare. Just space to show up as themselves—and time to make memories out of nothing more than love and laughter.
“Summer tends to turn the ordinary dad into an everyday legend.”
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ARTICLE BY NICOLE LEVITT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAKE WHITMEYER
Winter Park’s Nightlife is evolving. More creativity, honesty, and community. At the center of this shift are three local artists who each bring something different to the scene: DJ and event curator Rupesh, indie folk singer Dean Batten, and comedian Selena Ubias. While they work in different genres, their impact is the same: real talent, real emotion, and a deeper kind of connection after dark. Rupesh is a DJ with a background in classical percussion, but it’s his global house sets and community-building events that are catching attention. After falling in love with vinyl DJing in high school, he spent years developing his sound and now co-hosts Daylite Orlando, a dance event that blends underground music and culture. His sets are less about the playlist and more about mood—pulling sounds from his South Asian roots and blending them with house, disco, and funk. He’s helped transform spaces like Qreate Coffee and Iron Cow into welcoming spots for people who want more than a typical night out. “It’s about creating a space where people can be themselves,” he says. Dean Batten, a singer-songwriter with a literary bent, takes a more introspective approach. A self-taught guitarist and poet, he writes songs that explore mental health, isolation, and hope with sharp clarity. After traveling cross-country by motorcycle and settling in Orlando, Dean began playing local venues like Stardust and Will’s Pub. His lyrics are direct but poetic, and his voice is raw—drawing comparisons to artists like Bright Eyes and Iron & Wine. “Songwriting helps me sort through what’s real,” he says. His upcoming EP focuses on personal transformation and the stories we tell ourselves in private. Dean Batten’s songwriting is deeply personal, often reflecting his journey of self-discovery. His work resonates with anyone grappling with internal struggles or seeking meaning in life’s uncertainties. His authenticity on stage draws listeners in, making them feel seen.
“I take the ugliest parts of life and make them funny. It’s the one place I can be brutally honest and people actually listen.”
—Selena Ubias
Selena Ubias, Photography By: Jake Whitmeyer
Selena Ubias is a bold new voice in Orlando’s comedy scene, bringing sharp writing and fearless energy to every stage she steps on. After a spontaneous open mic led her into stand-up, Selena doubled down on her craft—and it’s paying off. She credits her father as a major influence on her comedic journey. Growing up, she admired his ability to make everyone laugh effortlessly, inspiring her to pursue comedy. His charisma and quick wit left a lasting impact on her style. Her material is rooted in lived experience, touching on topics like mental health, financial stress, and everyday chaos. She draws from real conversations and bad days, using humor to dig deeper into uncomfortable truths. “Comedy is how I cope,” she explains. A recent appearance on the comedy podcast Kill Tony gave her a boost of confidence and wider recognition. “When someone you respect tells you you’ve got a future in this, it changes things,” she says. Alongside regular live shows, she hosts the Unstable Creatures podcast and is growing her YouTube presence with full stand-up sets. Together, Rupesh, Dean, and Selena represent what Winter Park nightlife is becoming: more thoughtful, more expressive, and more human.
Ready for a night of mystery and magic? Just beyond the parks and attractions, there’s a place where the unexpected comes to life—welcome to The Eye.
Tucked away on International Drive, The Eye Restaurant & Lounge brings something entirely fresh to Orlando’s nightlife. From the moment you step through the door, you’re swept into an atmosphere that’s equal parts sultry, sophisticated, and surreal. The space is draped in rich textures, moody lighting, and eyecatching details that make you feel like you’ve entered a world of elegance and intrigue.
But it’s not just about the vibes—the culinary and cocktail experience is just as captivating. The menu features a tempting selection of shareable plates, crafted with care and full of bold flavors. And the cocktails? They’re not just drinks—they’re a show of their own. From tableside pours to dramatic garnishes and smoke-filled glass domes, every detail adds to the magic of the night.
As the evening unfolds, The Eye transforms. Live DJs fill the space with music that sets the tone, and on weekends, the energy kicks up a notch with a halftime show that’ll have you completely mesmerized. Whether you’re lounging in the intimate Pink Room, mingling on the outdoor patio, or dancing under the glow of the main lounge, every corner invites you to indulge your senses.
Whether it’s date night, a celebration, or just a spontaneous night out, The Eye offers an escape from the ordinary. Step in, dress up, and get ready to be enchanted.
The Eye Restaurant & Lounge
8255 International Dr #108, Orlando, FL 32819
Open daily: 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Reservations: theeyerestaurant.com
“It’s not just about the vibes—the culinary and cocktail experience is just as captivating.”
Orlando Travel Foodies
The Eye Restaurant & Lounge
“From the moment you step through the door, you’re swept into an atmosphere that’s equal parts sultry, sophisticated, and surreal.”
“The drinks are a show of their own.” Josh Ojeda, Orlando Travel Foodies
“The Eye’s menu features a tempting selection of shareable plates, crafted with care and full of bold flavors.”
“On weekends, the energy kicks up a notch with a halftime show that’ll have you completely mesmerized!” Josh Ojeda, Orlando Travel Foodies
Orlando Travel Foodie Marie Ojeda enjoys a unique cocktail experience at The Eye
At just 26 years old, Lionel White and Joanell ParisSantos aren’t just thinking big —they’re building something even bigger. As the driving force behind Urgentflex, a fast-growing mergers and acquisitions firm focused on regenerative healthcare, they’re reshaping what it means to lead, scale, and disrupt in today’s business landscape.
Their mission is clear: acquire and grow high-impact healthcare businesses, starting with cutting-edge treatments. But their larger vision is to build a company that is lean, agile, and built to last — powered by a team as driven and forward-thinking as they are.
Paris, who grew up between Puerto Rico and the mainland U.S., brings a systems-oriented mindset fueled by curiosity and a desire for impact. From his early days as the neighborhood handyman to leading scalable healthcare ventures, he’s always been fascinated by how things work — and how to make them work better. “Success is sovereignty,” he says. “I want to create value that compounds—for our team, our investors, and the people we serve.”
Lionel, originally from Jamaica, was inspired by his grandfather’s self-made real estate empire. He caught the
entrepreneurial spark young, reselling KFC in school at an 80% markup, and now applies that same resourcefulness to navigating complex merger & acquisition deals. “I’ve always felt like I had a chip on my shoulder,” he says. “Now I’m focused on turning that drive into generational wealth—for my family, and for others.”
After meeting through mutual connections, the two quickly discovered their visions aligned. Together, they’ve assembled a high-performing team that includes seasoned board members like Alonzo Williams, who serves as acting CEO, and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tyler Sexton, among others—all committed to growing Urgentflex with purpose.
Their approach is bold. Their timeline is ambitious. But their focus remains steady: building a culture rooted in ownership, strategy, and long-term value.
“We’re not waiting until we’re 40 to do something meaningful,” says Lionel. “We’re doing it now, and we’re bringing the right people with us.”
From transforming healthcare access to mentoring the next generation of operators, this team isn’t playing it safe. They’re building a legacy. And they’re just getting started.
JUNE 4TH
Unplugged Comedy
13 South Magnolia Ave., Orlando, FL 32801 | 9:00 PM
Every Wednesday night, Luna’s Comedy Lounge in Downtown Orlando comes alive with laughter and top-tier entertainment. Produced by Jarri Knows and hosted by Tae Tatted Up, this comedy show features a dynamic lineup of seasoned comedians and rising talent. With shows starting at 9 PM, it’s the perfect mid-week escape for comedy lovers.
JUNE 6TH
STOMP
445 S.Magnolia Ave., Orlando, FL 32801 | 8:00 PM
Feel the rhythm with STOMP! This electrifying show blends dance, music, and theater using everyday objects like brooms and garbage cans to create explosive beats. A global sensation since 1994, STOMP has captivated audiences in 45 countries, from Broadway to the Olympics. Don’t miss the energy, wit, and innovation of this unforgettable performance!!
JUNE 7TH
200 W. New England Ave., Winter Park, FL 32789 | 8:00 AM
The Saturday Farmers’ Market in Central Florida is a beloved community gathering spot, offering a vibrant mix of fresh produce, plants, baked goods, and specialty items. Held every Saturday from 8 AM to 1 PM at Central Park West Meadow in Winter Park, the market features a diverse array of vendors, making it the perfect place to explore local flavors and unique finds.
JUNE 7TH
Every Woman Expo 2025
5780 Major Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819 | 9:00 AM
The Every Woman Expo 2025 is bringing the fun like never before! WOO Weekend kicks off at the DoubleTree by Hilton near Universal Orlando with the Southern Soul Comedy Show featuring Marvin Dixon. Get ready for laughs, line dancing, DJs, and good vibes—cowboy boots are optional but highly encouraged
JUNE 8TH
5780 Major Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819 | 1:00 PM
The Women of Orlando “WOO” Luncheon 2025 is a celebration of connection, inspiration, and empowerment. Taking place on Sunday, June 8, at the DoubleTree by Hilton near Universal Orlando, this event brings together women from diverse backgrounds for networking, storytelling, and personal growth. With inspiring speakers, interactive activities, and engaging discussions, it promises to be an unforgettable experience.
JUNE 28TH
5771 North Apopka Vineland Rd., Orlando, FL 32818 | 12:00 PM
Sneakers & Suits is a laid-back networking event for men looking to grow in business, lifestyle, and connection. Enjoy good food, connect with like-minded professionals, and relax at the cigar bar. With a few exclusive surprises planned, it’s the perfect mix of ambition and atmosphere.