Winter Park, FL November 2023 by City Lifestyle

Thankful A R T S + C U LT U R E

N O N PRO FIT LE ADERS M AKI NG A DIFFERENCE

November 2023 PUBLISHER

Brande Dils | brande.dils@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

STAFF PHOTOGR APHER

So much to be thankful for!

CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Dawn Aiello | dawn@dawnaiellophotography.com

Rebecca Schmidt, Andy Cingolani CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

“Now we’re telling all stories, so that we are experiencing a full, inclusive, diverse, holistic vision of who we are as an American people, and that informs and inspires future generations.” Theresa Smith-Levin This poignant reflection by Theresa Smith Levine, one of our featured non-profit executive directors beautifully captures the essence of our magazine's rebirth this November. As families gather to express gratitude, we too find ourselves reflecting on our journey and the stories that bind our community. We're not just recounting tales; we're weaving the intricate tapestry of diverse experiences, voices, and histories that make Winter Park so uniquely vibrant. Furthermore, I'd like to extend my deepest gratitude to the incredible non-profit organizations we've collaborated with. Your commitment to our community and your faith in our magazine's vision have been pivotal and inspiring. A special shoutout to the brilliant teams at Shot of Moxie and Hi Hello Labs: your creativity, dedication, and expertise played a crucial role in shaping what I proudly consider our most beautiful issue to date. While our publication schedule means that many of you will read this after the voting window for the "Best of Winter Park" has closed, I invite each and every one of you to join us on November 2nd to see if we've clinched the title. Your ongoing support means the world, and I'd love to share that potentially momentous occasion with our community. Together, we continue to evolve, ensuring every voice is heard and every story is told. Thank you for being a part of this beautiful journey.

Shot of Moxie, Angela Robbins, Deon Cooper

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

Warmly,

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER Jayme Emery

BRANDE DILS, PUBLISHER @WINTERPA RKCIT Y LIFE S T Y LE

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Winter Park City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Media Partners LLC. It neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Media Partners’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Media Partners’ does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Winter Park City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue The Thankful Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Orion, Betelgeuse, and a Shooting Star

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Maker’s Studio S HO PPI NG

Curb Appeal HO ME S ERV I C ES

Inspired By A RTS + C U LT U R E

Local Limelight A RTS + C U LTU R E

Events

How a uniquely personal story became an exquisite piece of custom jewelry.

18 Contender Roofing

How this small local roofer is making its mark.

20 Local Legacies: Celebrating Non-Profits Making a Difference Diverse Missions, Unified Purpose

28 Beyond The Parks

Experiencing the “Other Orlando” through Cuisine and Community

O N T H E C OV E R

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

MARISSA ALEXANDRA STYLE

GRIT IMAGING

1: Marissa Burns, Cheryl Moore hosting a Pop Up Shop at Kendra Scott in WP Village 2-5: Club 1882 Social hosted by The Park Avenue District at AJ Chocolate House 6: Women in Wealth Summer Event hosted at House of Lang

November 10 - 19 & November 30 December 16, 2023

C I T Y SC E N E

Ring in the holidays with this unforgettable evening of quintessential Tony Bennett! Featuring eighteen holiday classic holiday tunes plus the standards that made Bennett famous like "I Wanna Be Around," "The Good Life," "Rags to Riches" and of course Tony's signature song, "I Left Heart in San Francisco." Grab your friends and family and celebrate the season Tony Bennett style!

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @WinterParkCityLifestyle

7: The Ripple Effect Luncheon hosted by Cannonball Kids’ Cancer 8: Debora Mendoca, Executive Director, Glass Knife 9: Karen Moreno, The Bar Method & Cassandra Johnson, Cassandra Flora Designs.

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business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses. First Mobile Cigar and Coffee Bar in Central Florida Central Florida introduces its exclusive Mobile Cigar Lounge and Coffee Bar, perfect for weddings, corporate events, and special occasions. Gigi, our Airstream, boasts a unique Spanish Cedar-lined humidor catering to both novice and seasoned cigar enthusiasts. Plus, with a Nuova Simonelli machine onboard, expect premium artisan coffee, enhancing your cigar experience. Book now for an elevated affair!

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Introducing the New Membership Director at the Citrus Club Caleb Paull is a connector, collaborator, and community-builder in Central Florida who has recently accepted the role as Membership Director for The Citrus Club - Downtown Orlando’s Premier Social Club. The Citrus Club is a place where a diverse group of business owners and community leaders gather to elevate and enhance business and social connections. Caleb’s passion to create and nurture a life-giving business culture in Central Florida.

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Karen Schafer accepted new position with Elite Events & Tickets Elite Events & Tickets curates experiences to the world's most prestigious and popular sporting events. As experts in organizing and hosting unforgettable sports bucket-list packages, they provide complete individual, family, group, and corporate sports hospitality experiences to the most incredible major sporting events worldwide. Their services include procuring hard-to-find tickets, first class accommodations, personalized itineraries, private luxury transfers, catering, entertainment, concierge services, gifting and more. It's the perfect time to embrace your Sports Bucket List!

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Dr. Monica Sher opens Elite Medical Concierge Practice Dr. Monica Sher: Florida native, double gold medalist figure skater, and founder of Elite Medical Concierge. Her new practice provides personalized healthcare service with tailored medical care and streamlined access to doctors. Beyond her medical achievements, Dr. Sher serves on the board of Debbie's Dream Foundation, championing stomach cancer awareness.

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Chocolate Cafe comes to Winter Park Established in 2002 in Vilnius, Lithuania, AJ Chocolate House transformed a family dream into Europe's sought-after delicacy. As their reach expanded, our chocolates graced fine hotels, luxury cafes, and became gifts for diplomats and luminaries. Now, their signature flavors have found a home in Central Florida, with their U.S. store proudly located in Winter Park, adjacent to Rollins College, in the Orlando vicinity.

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CONTINUED >

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B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY C O N T I N U E D

New Social Media Agency Launches in Central Florida In a strategic union set to redefine social media marketing, Delaina Baker, recognized as Orlando's leading social media maestro, has partnered with the visionary behind Moxie Brands, Angela Robbins. Together they introduce Shot of Moxie a pioneering social media marketing agency built on the foundation of cutting-edge content creating and strategic partnership opportunities for service-based companies and non-profit organizations. Businesses across Orlando can anticipate a holistic approach to their marketing needs.

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Orion, Betelgeuse, and a Shooting Star How a uniquely personal story became an exquisite piece of custom jewelry // Step One

It was a cool October evening in 2011 and my wife, Renee, and I were sitting on the back lanai facing east. We had only just started dating and still getting to know each other. As we sat and chatted, we both noticed the constellation Orion above the trees behind the house. It was a clear evening and each of its stars was shining brightly, one of the brightest stars, the one known as Betelgeuse, is classified as a red supergiant star, which means that at some point in the next 100,000 years, it is expected to explode and light up the night sky in a spectacular supernova. It's also why that one star in Orion gives off a reddish hue. So there we were, Renee and I, gazing up at Orion and enjoying each other's company when a shooting star blazed a path right across the middle of the constellation! We both said, whoa, at the same time. Renee asked, “Did you see that?” “Wow,” I said. “That was spectacular!” It was one of those unforgettable moments that gave us both a story we like to

M AK E R’S ST U D IO | SHOPPI NG

// Step Two

tell people, especially when they ask how we met and how we knew we were meant to be together. I was thinking about that story while trying to decide what special gift I could give Renee for her birthday in July. So I decided to commemorate the moment with a custom-designed necklace showing the constellation with the shooting star. I visited with Dustin Brake, manager and lead designer at Victoria Jewelers in Baldwin Park. First, I showed him a sketch of the idea and told him the story behind it. I had never worked with a jeweler to create something like this and wasn't sure if it was possible or how the process would work. Dustin immediately got excited and his passion for his work was obvious. “It was such an interesting idea, especially with the story that went with it,” he said. “I really enjoyed hearing the story and knowing we'd be able to bring the thought to life creatively. It's a lot of fun to work on a project that has such a personal meaning for the person who gets to wear it.”

ARTICLE BY ANDY CINGOLANI PHOTOGRAPHY BY VICTORIA JEWELERS AND DAWN AIELLO // Step Three

// Step Four

There was some back and forth between us as we talked about what the necklace would be made of and what kind of stones would be used. In the end, we decided on white gold with all the stars represented by diamonds except for Betelgeuse, which is a ruby, Renee’s birthstone. The shooting star is also white gold and was designed to move along the support between two of the stars. When it was finished, Dustin shared with me that it was a huge topic of conversation at Victoria Jewelers. “Part of what we do is that we share in everything,” he said. “We all work together as a big team, really like a family, and we talked a lot about how cool and unique here it is and what an amazing story there was behind it. To be able to be as passionate as we are and really get attached to why we are building this, what are we celebrating, is so rewarding and it echoes throughout the store.”

The process started with a sketch of what I wanted the necklace to look like. When I sat down with Dustin, we also pulled up some online images of the Orion constellation.

After some back and forth on the design details, Victoria Jewelers created a wax mold of the pendant.

Dustin then placed the stones in the wax model so we could really start to see the piece takes shape.

From there, the wax model was used to create a mold for the white gold. Then, their master jeweler worked on the fine details and polishing. CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/W I N T E R PA R K

// Step Five Photo by Dawn Aiello Photography

Finally, after a process that had started about six weeks earlier, I was able to wish Renee a happy birthday and give her a uniquely personal gift from the heart!

M AK E R’S ST U D IO | SHOPPI NG

About Victoria Jewelers Victoria Jewelers was established in 1987 and has been a family-owned business for over 35 years. They are a destination store, drawing people from all areas of town, a testament to their unmatched craftsmanship and outstanding customer service. In addition to fine custom-designed jewelry, they offer several designer lines and an impressive collection of engagement rings. Located at 4845 New Broad Street in Baldwin Park. For more information, call 407-895-0047 or visit their website at victoriajewelers.net.

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CONTENDER ROOFING HOW THIS SMALL LOCAL ROOFER IS MAKING ITS MARK

ARTICLE BY ANDY CINGOLANI PHOTOGRAPHY BY CONTENDER ROOFING

C UR B A P P E A L | HOM E SERVI CE S

On a recent sales call, Wes Turner of Contender Roofing was speaking to a homeowner experiencing a very common problem. His insurance company had informed him that he would need to replace his 15-year-old roof. And with no real damage other than normal wear and tear, there would be no insurance money to cover the cost. “We run into this a lot,” Wes said. “Insurance companies have been hit with so many claims over the last 15 to 20 years that they've been cracking down on older roofs.” According to Wes - who along with his partner, Justin Lafavers, owns the company - many roofing companies require a 50% down payment to start the work. And when you're talking about a roof that can cost $20,000 or more, it's a lot of money to come up with on the spot. This was one of those circumstances. “That's why one of the things we do is we don't require money upfront on a roof that's $30,000 or less, which covers most homes in Central Florida,” he said. “By not taking a down payment, it's easier for the customer to trust us because they don't get billed until the project is done.”

An additional benefit, according to Wes, is that it allows them to get more referrals from real estate agents. “If somebody’s selling their house and they don't have the money for a new roof, it can make the home harder to sell because the buyer is going to need homeowners’ insurance,” he said. “And you can't get insurance with an old roof. So the seller is responsible for it and they probably won't have the money to pay for it until after the sale closes.” Because Contender Roofing is a smaller company compared to many of their competitors, there are several advantages for their customers, the most important being the ability to deliver personal service. “I know every company will tell you that service is what separates them from the competition,” Wes said. “With us, though, we're not trying to do 10 roofs every week, so there are a lot of things that we do that bigger companies can't.” For example, during a recent roof installation, a circuit breaker flipped and turned off the air conditioning to the entire home. Because they didn't immediately know what tripped the breaker, they had to call in an HVAC contractor to assess the situation and make sure it was safe. “So to keep the house cool for the homeowners, we brought a portable unit in until the AC guy could come out. Fortunately, it was as easy as flipping the circuit breaker back on, but you can never be too careful with the electrical." Another area where their service comes in handy is during the permitting process, which can sometimes take up to two weeks once the paperwork has been submitted. “It speeds up the process if you take the forms to the permitting office and are willing to sit and wait. If you're doing 8 to 10 roofs a week, there is no way you can do that for your customers. But we are more than happy to wait around if we get our permits faster!” For more information, visit contenderroofing.com or call 407-619-0556.

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LOCAL LEGACIES: CELEBRATING NON-PROFITS MAKING A DIFFERENCE DIVERSE MISSIONS, UNIFIED PURPOSE

Central Florida’s nonprofit vanguards: Tomas Lares, Dana Nichols, Jason Eichenholz, Margaret Guedes, Jen Knopf, and Theresa Smith Levine. Beyond helming organizations that touch countless lives, these trailblazers share a profound, heart-driven ethos. Their collective resonance? An unwavering, deeply personal mission fueling their impact. Dive into the passions and purposes of these transformative figures in our cover story.

ARTICLE BY REBECCA SCHMIDT PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGELA ROBBINS & DEON COOPER

I NSP IR E D BY | A RTS + CULTURE

JASON EICHENHOLZ F O U N D E R O F J O N AT H A N ’ S L A N D I N G Jason Eichenholz, founder of Jonathan’s Landing, visioned to be the world’s most comprehensive community for adults with autism where “live and work are equal pillars.” Eichenholz’s vision of Jonathan’s Landing stems from his desire to provide a safe, thriving, sustainable, adult living community for his autistic son Jonathan and “499 of his closest friends.” Planned for 25-50 acres near an urban center in Orlando, the design combines entrepreneurship, social enterprises and deep strategic partnerships to provide safe and affordable housing for 500 adults with autism and create 5,000 jobs and career opportunities in the community and eventually worldwide. Even before breaking ground, the Central Florida non-profit is actively developing its first work program and social enterprise. Jason has also launched several unique inclusion and experience programs for individuals with special needs, starting with “Meals with Jonathan,” where Jason and Jonathan gather for small group meals that give Jonathan an opportunity to learn, practice and showcase his socialization skills while giving others (more than 100 already) an opportunity to learn more about the world of autism. Jonathan sometimes even dons his apron and chef’s hat to demonstrate his cooking skills, working with personal chefs and restaurant partners. In the past year, this has grown to include events at Orlando Magic games where individuals and families enjoy a more intimate microenvironment of a corporate suite providing a safer sensory experience. Eichenholz is leveraging his business success and relationships to build Jonathan’s Landing and feels he has found his “why.” “I was born to build my company, Luminar, but it is God’s plan for me to build Jonathan’s Landing.” CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/W I N T E R PA R K

JEN KNOPF FOUNDER OF THE REED C H A R I TA B L E F O U N DAT I O N Jen Knopf, inspired by her son Reed’s journey with dyslexia, founded the REED Charitable Foundation (RCF). This heartwarming initiative has a clear mission: to empower the dyslexic community, address the global literacy crisis, and ensure the Orton-Gillingham (OG) training - a scientifically proven literacy method tailored for dyslexia - is accessible to all educators. In Knopf’s quest for solutions, she found that many young students face reading challenges and require specialized instructional support. However, she was alarmed to see a substantial gap in resources and support systems for such adaptive instruction. Knopf passionately believes, “Reading failure is the downstream cause of almost any societal issue. The impacts are catastrophic. We know the solution to the literacy crisis — and it is our responsibility to make sure that all children get what they need. That’s why RCF exists.” In December 2020, with an aim to reshape the educational landscape, Jen introduced the REED Charitable Foundation. This foundation champions the Orton-Gillingham method, which breaks down reading and spelling into more digestible units, emphasizing letters and sounds for children diagnosed with dyslexia. This method has proven transformative for all children, enabling them to harness a reading technique that truly lets them flourish. While such training could cost educators thousands, RCF generously offers no- or low-cost training. Moreover, they stand by educators, providing consistent support to ensure the training’s enduring impact. Since its inception, RCF has made remarkable strides, training nearly 600 educators in 135 schools across the U.S. and beyond. For Knopf, the motivation is pure and straightforward: to empower dyslexics and address and alleviate our national literacy challenge.

I NSP IR E D BY | A RTS + CULTURE

DANA NICHOLS E X E C U T I V E D I R E C TO R O F CANNONBALL KIDS’ CANCER Dana Nichols, the engaging and passionate Executive Director of Cannonball Kids’ Cancer (CKc), carries a spark of disruption in her spirit. She zestfully says, “I always want to be at a place where we are disrupting what’s happening. We’re asking questions about why something is the way it is and striving for permanent change. For me, CKc is the answer to all of that.” Nichols envisions Cannonball Kids’ Cancer as a journey “up the river,” a proactive quest to discover the most effective pediatric cancer treatments. She’s deeply passionate about this mission, particularly aware of the young lives hanging in the balance. Nichols’ eyes light up when she talks about the transformative work her foundation supports through two pioneering grant programs. The first is dedicated to clinical trials designed for children battling cancer, ensuring treatments are tailored to their unique needs. The second, the “Young Investigator” grant, is especially close to her heart. “We need to keep young, innovative minds in the field to get to a point of clinical trials. It takes years and years. If we don’t help protect their lab time, they may otherwise go where the money is.” This Young Investigator grant paves the way for sustained research, focusing on both treatment and the long-term well-being of young cancer survivors. “Research is the Key” isn’t just the motto for Cannonball Kids’ Cancer; it’s Dana’s personal mantra for tackling challenges. Her driving force? CKc empowers Nichols to stay true to her core beliefs: innovative thinking, seeking upstream solutions, and proactive problem-solving. For her, making a difference is all in a day’s fulfilling work. CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/W I N T E R PA R K

TOMAS LARES F O U N D E R A N D P R E S I D E N T O F S TO P HUMAN TRAFFICKING Tomas Lares, founder and president of Stop Human Trafficking checks his phone and smiles. He has just heard from a survivor whose life has been changed from his Central Florida agency. He takes a moment, and then, assuredly answers the question we’ve asked this month’s non-profit executives, “Why do you do this work?” “What keeps me going are the survivors. When I see life and hope coming back. To see somebody who now realizes that they have value, that they are loved, that they are important and that they have a purpose. That keeps me going everyday.” Lares has spent his entire 33-year professional life in the non-profit advocacy space, having founded several agencies and task forces. After graduating with a psychology degree, he says he found his passion from day one with his job at Big Brothers and Big Sisters. Lares realized that many of the kids benefiting from the organization were also personally affected by human trafficking — back then, categorized under the broader umbrella of child abuse. In 2009, Lares started the non-profit Central Florida’s Stop Human Trafficking. The agency, and its hundreds of volunteers act as first responders who coordinate an array of services to help victims escape trafficking situations. It often starts with a call to the agency’s hotline. Lares wants people to know that human trafficking does not discriminate. It affects children, adults, females, males, and people of all ethnicity and education. He also wants us to know the hotline number 407-504-1319 because every phone call can mean another life saved.

I NSP IR E D BY | A RTS + CULTURE

MARGARET GUEDES C E O, P R E S I D E N T A N D F O U N D E R O F K I D S B E AT I N G C A N C E R The mission of Kids Beating Cancer is to provide access to life-saving treatments for every child diagnosed with cancer in Central Florida. For Margaret Guedes, Kids Beating Cancer’s CEO, President and Founder, the mission is deeply personal. It all began 31 years ago when she lost her 9-year-old son after a tumultuous battle with leukemia. Local treatments for his type of leukemia were not available at the time, so the family had no choice but to travel very long distances for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-ups. The stress of the cancer was exasperated by cross-country travel, weeks away from home and the lack of community support and services. Following the passing of her son, Guedes became an advocate for children with cancer, and their families. Her “why” remains the same since Kids Beating Cancer’s foundation in 1992: “So no other family will have to go through the stress of travel just to receive great medical care for their child.” Three decades later, in addition to funding access to treatments and pediatric cancer research nationwide, Kids Bearing Cancer provides extensive support within the hospitals, including weekly visits, food kitchens for parents so they don’t have to leave their children’s side, themed hospital rooms, seasonal parties, a Teddy bear and blanket, clothing and any necessities a family may need. Guedes realized from the beginning that fundraising would have to become a major part of Kids Beating Cancer’s goal of providing local access for cancer care. In 2012, Kids Beating Cancer’s first major funding investment helped open the first pediatric transplant center in Central Florida at AdventHealch for Children, so no child and family would have to leave town to receive a bone marrow or stem cell transplant. “It was a long battle, but we fought for the cause.” CONTINUED >

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THERESA SMITH LEVINE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF CENTRAL FLORIDA VOCAL ARTS AND OPERA DEL SOL

2022 Production of the Sound of Music

I NSP IR E D BY | A RTS + CULTURE

Theresa Smith Levine, executive director of Central Florida Vocal Arts and Opera del Sol, says the non-profit’s slogan, “Where the Voice Takes Center Stage” is about empowerment. Ten years ago, Levine woke up from a dream with the realization that she had a calling to help people express themselves through creativity so she made it her mission to combine her love for music and her talent for performing with her desire to help people find their power through voice. Within 12 hours of having that dream, Levine was applying for a 501(c)3. “Even more than an artist, I consider myself a person who really cares. That’s always been my life. I decided to take what I was good at and do something and that meant creating art that really speaks to people. I want to provide for their mental health, for their heart and their soul. Art can help people find their voice.” Levine laments that access to performing arts is not equitable. “What tends to happen is that we get a very homogeneous professional performing arts scene. That means that only certain stories are told and what defines us as a culture is a very limited lens.” Central Florida Vocal Arts has the mission to change all that by bringing performances, lessons and opportunities for expression to people of all socioeconomic backgrounds, ages and life stages. “Now we’re telling all stories, so that we are experiencing a full, inclusive, diverse, holistic vision of who we are as an American people, and that informs and inspires future generations.” The Winter Park-based non-profit uses the power of music to inspire audience members to not only view traveling performances (put on by a pool of 200 paid performers) and cutting edge theatre, but also to participate in performances, music appreciation workshops and affordable or free music lessons. Levine believes that when a person finds the confidence to sing, they gain confidence in every aspect of their life. “I know what music meant for me. The place that made me whole was my choral program. It was singing.” Levine’s “Why” is to help all participants to feel empowered by discovering their unique voice.

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Beyond The Parks Experiencing the “Other Orlando” through Cuisine and Community ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARISSA BURNS

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | A RTS + CULTURE

Very few things can compel me towards outdoor activities in this Central Florida heat. (Just ask my children.) But the Foodie Walking Tour of Winter Park caused me to reevaluate my position. I lathered the sunblock, checked in, and readied myself for local cuisine. But what I experienced that day nourished me in more ways than simply through food. I was greeted by Rich Bradley, the owner of Original Orlando Tours, and his son Michael, who served as our day’s guide. First stop was the Winter Park Farmers Market for a seasoned, savory, handheld pie that I would have sworn was chicken had it not been courtesy of The Bearded Vegan. We said “Bonjour!” to Choulala, the French patisserie and sampled a Key Lime Cream Puff that was both perfectly Parisian and yet very “Florida.” Next, we were off to The Ancient Olive for a tasting of decadent olive oil, surprisingly delicious blueberry balsamic vinegar, as well as several dips made with their various accouterments. In between all our stops, we were also served up delightful morsels of Winter Park history that would amuse even a long time local. We were welcomed, seated and served a cocktail at Blu on the Avenue, as we tried the grouper taco. (Go there. Eat that. Thank me later!) The General Manager of JM Hospitality group, Lucky Cortes, generously shared his time and details about the food and the company’s numerous properties. I sipped a zero-proof Ranch Water and learned they have a handful of nonalcoholic wines and spirits in addition to their extensive bar. As we lingered, I noted the rapport Rich and his team had with the local businesses. It reminded me of the way smalltown shop owners talk to each other in movies, like a bygone era of neighbors who really know each other and really like each other.

We enjoyed a hearty portion of the most popular sandwich and salad from the new, healthy Fresh & Co. And to the children’s delight, we were then led to Park Avenue’s long-standing soda and candy shop, Rocket Fizz. We sampled sodas from nostalgic glass bottles, then snacked and strolled the brightly colored taffy aisle. Next, it was the adults' turn to imbibe as we journeyed to The Vintage Vault Wine Bar for the conclusion of our tour. As our group of almost 20 gathered around the table for their red and white tastings, I felt full. And it was more than the food. As I talked with Rich about his work in several local chambers, it became obvious that his drive and passion are for community. It’s easy to get lost in Orlando, to feel small in a city that boasts worldclass attractions and larger-than-life entertainment. But what I found that day on the streets of Winter Park was a business community committed to making this vast city a little more connected, a little bit more like home. Helping both Orlando residents and visitors experience a richer, more personal side of our city is at the heart of every tour. This is an Orlando experience you’ll want to have, friends. The food is yummy, the staff is warm and knowledgeable, and you may discover a new love for The City Beautiful. Plus, you can shop and dine for the rest of the day with special discounts from all the tour stops. And while some stops are tour staples, the other destinations vary to ensure the menu and experience stay fresh for repeat customers. So whether you are just visiting Central Florida or are a long time resident, I encourage you to walk (and talk) a mile with Original Orlando Tours. You’ll uncover the gems in your backyard, brush up on your Orlando history, and enjoy the cuisine and company of people who care.

“We’re not a major theme park, but once we’re entrusted with a guest’s time, it’s imperative that we deliver that same level of satisfaction and thrill in what we do.” —Rich Bradley, owner CONTINUED >

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INTO THE SPOOKY SCENE? Catch a Ghost Tour of Winter Park, which runs year ‘round including every night in October. Professional guides adjust and cater the “scare factor” to accommodate the age of the audience, so younger thrill seekers can join in, too. You never know who you might meet on an Original Orlando Tour! Rumor has it, a group literally ran into

comedian Carrot Top on Park Avenue’s sidewalk during one of its custom Winter Park tours. And the day I visited, we were accompanied by former Food Network TV host, Charles Stiles. Visit OriginalOrlandoTours.com for a full list of all the exciting ways you can experience the Orlando beyond the parks.

L E A R N M O R E : Marissa is a fashion + lifestyle writer, speaker and host.

In her work as a stylist and image consultant, she teaches professional women how to leverage the power of personal branding to grow their business. Marissa is passionate about the small business community in Central Florida and facilitating collaboration among its residents.

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | A RTS + CULTURE

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events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

FIRST SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH

NOV E M BE R 2 N D

Improv Comedy by The MidNite Snax

BREAKTHR OUG H THEATR E | 7:0 0 P M Join us for a hilarious and unpredictable evening of late-night improv! From the witty banter to dynamic sketches, every moment promises fresh and original laughs. With a dazzling display of talent, innovative storylines, and riveting interactions, this show is set to be a vibrant addition to your night out. Don’t miss it! Bring donations for their food drive to the show on November 5th. Tickets are $12.00.

Best of Winter Park Celebration

WIN TER PAR K FAR MERS ' MAR K E T | 5 :0 0 P M At the annual celebration of our businesses and cultural institutions, we will reveal the winners and finalists in all “Best Of” categories. Winners and finalists are voted on by the community prior to the event. The event will feature of showcase of Winter Park businesses, live music and drinks.

N OV E M BE R 4 T H & 5T H

NOV E M BE R 9 T H

Maker Faire Orlando 2023

CEN TR AL FLORDA FAIRG ROUNDS , 4 6 0 3 WE ST C O LO NI A L DR I V E , O R L A NDO At Maker Faire Orlando 2023, dive into a universe of robotics, cosplay, STEM, crafts, and more, featuring hands-on experiences and unique creations. Included is the Robot Ruckus combat competition with BattleBots TV show teams. A blend of art, science, and technology, Maker Faire offers something for everyone. Hosted by The Maker Effect Foundation.

Vinyl Listening Party at Bang & Olufsen

BAN G & OLUFS EN , 220 W. FAI R B A NKS AV E NUE , WI NT E R PA R K | 5 :0 0 P M Come in and listen to albums played through Bang & Olufsen's 8000-watt Beolab 90 Speakers. Feel free to bring your own vinyl or just drop by to listen to classic records on a refurbished Bang & Olufsen Turntable. Food, beverages and fun provided! Call 321-972-3151 to RSVP.

NOVEMBER 10THDECEMBER 16TH

A Swingin' Christmas: The Holiday Music of Tony Bennett

NOVE M BE R 2 4 T H

Sailing with Santa Cruise

WIN TER PAR K PLAYHOUS E Support our partners by attending this unforgettable evening of quintessential Tony Bennett songs.

ST. J OHN S RIVERS HIP LOCATE D AT T H E SA NF O R D MA R I NA | 1 1 :0 0 A M The Rivership Barbara-Lee is an authentic sternwheeler that sails the St. Johns River. Visit with Santa and have lunch or dinner while cruising down the St. Johns River. Tickets available on their website at stjohnsrivershipco.com. Santa is a busy man and this one is sure to sell out!

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EVENTS CONTINUED

NOVEMBER 25TH

Shop Small on Park Ave.

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PA R K AV E NUE , WI NT E R PA RK | 1 0 :0 0 A M Celebrate Small Business Saturday in Winter Park, by exploring Park Avenue's unique boutiques and local gems. From the curated collections at Through the Looking Glass to the fashion of Tuni, and the curated fair trade items at Ten Thousand Villages, shopping small supports our community's heart and soul. Join us this Saturday after Thanksgiving in the heart of Winter Park.

NOVEMBER 26TH

A Voctave Christmas

ST E I NME T Z H A L L | 8 :0 0 P M Vocal ensemble sensation Voctave returns to Steinmetz Hall with the Bach Festival Choir and Orchestra to kick off the most wonderful time of the year. These dynamic performers bring dazzling vocals and charm to holiday classics and new favorites. Last year’s festive program was a sell out! Get tickets at drphillipscenter.com

NOVEMBER 3 0 TH

45th Annual Christmas in the Park

C E NT R A L PA R K - MA I N STAG E , 1 1 S O UT H PA R K AV E NU E , WI NT E R PA R K | 6 :0 0 P M Launching Winter Park's festive season, the Morse Museum presents its 45th annual Christmas in the Park this November. Initiated in 1979 by the museum's benefactors Hugh and Jeannette McKean to showcase their unique Tiffany collection, the event now co-sponsored by the Morse and the City features illuminated Tiffany windows and a concert by the Bach Festival Choir and Brass Ensemble.

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