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It's My Birthday Month!
Dear Winter Park Neighbors,
August is a special month filled with the joy of kids returning to school and summer coming to a close. I'm thrilled to share the cover with my beloved Duke, a Catahoula Great Dane who brings so much joy to our lives. Our family wouldn't be complete without our Golden Retriever, Miles, and our sweet senior, Bo, a lab mix who's been with us for nearly 15 years.
This issue is all about celebrating the bonds we have with our kids and pets. Inside, you'll find a heartwarming story about a staycation at a local hotel that goes above and beyond to welcome our furry friends. Plus, don’t miss the feature on a talented photographer who captures our canine companions' unique spirit in a beautiful dog book.
As we navigate the end of summer and prepare for the year ahead, let's cherish these moments with our two-legged and four-legged families. And on a personal note, it’s my birthday this month!
Wishing you all a fantastic month filled with lots of tail wags and happy kids!
August 2024
PUBLISHER
Brande Dils | brande.dils@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Robbins; Kevin Bolding, President & CEO of YMCA of Central Florida
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Oliva Shannon; Angela Robbins, Shot of Moxie
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
Photo credit: Rinat Halon
• Family Owned and Operated for More Than 40 Years
• Fully Licensed and Insured
• Daikin 12 year parts and labor warranty
• Emergency Service Available 7 Days a Week
• Working with Only the Most Reliable Brands in the Business
• Extended Equipment Warranties for Your Peace of Mind
• Always On Time and On Budget
• We Pride Ourselves on Providing the Best Customer Service
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Greg Drolshagen, Medtech Search Group, and Kait Doulou, Build Ventures, at Orlando International Fashion Week 2: Designer Vanessa Salazar celebrates with models at Swim & Yacht Wear show at Grand Bohemian 3: Amy Rodriguez with her husband TJ at the June Issue Cover Party at Forward Slash 4: Anna Politi attended a tour of nonprofit One Purse Dream Studio and donated a purse. 5: Maxine Earhart of Maxine’s on Shine attended Orlando International Fashion Week at Porsche South Orlando 6: B. Dils, A. Robbins, W. Davis, S. Seidler, C. Paull at June Launch Party
7: Woahco resort wear was modeled at Orlando International Fashion Week’s poolside show at Grand Bohemian
SHOT OF MOXIE
SHOT OF MOXIE
SHOT OF MOXIE
DEON COOPER, SHOT OF MOXIE
DEON COOPER, SHOT OF MOXIE
business
SOTO AAAA Provides Pet and Kid-Friendly Carpets
SOTO AAAA Inc provides pet and kidfriendly carpets designed for durability and comfort. They resist stains, are easy to clean, and are made with non-toxic materials, ensuring a safe environment for your family. Adan Duran of SOTO AAAA Inc. says his clients enjoy peace of mind from these high quality carpets that are crafted to withstand the challenges of daily life with pets and children.
Miranda Cady Announces Cady Way Luxury Real Estate Coaching
Known for a successful career working with the world's best real estate brands, Miranda Cady has taken nearly a decade’s worth of knowledge and hundreds of thousands of dollars invested in attending 5 to 10 networking conferences annually and poured her experience into a 10 Week Intensive one-on-one coaching program for real estate agents interested building a luxury real estate business. The coaching program includes access to meaningful referral partnerships and vendor lists. For more information visit cadyway.com
A Performing Arts Collective Will Occupy the Former Library Site
Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts, Central Florida Vocal Arts and Performing Arts Matter, three arts nonprofits that have contributed meaningfully to the arts landscape in Winter Park, have formed a collaborative home at the former library site in Winter Park. After several hours of discussion and public comment, Winter Park City Commission voted four-to-one to approve their proposal for the library's reuse as a performing arts center offering performances and educational programming.
WINTER PARK RESIDENTS AND NON-PROFIT LEADERS COLLABORATE TO WRITE THE OLD LIBRARY‘S NEXT CHAPTER OF ARTISTIC IMPACT
The Old Library’s Second Act
ARTICLE BY ANGELA ROBBINS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGELA ROBBINS, SHOT OF MOXIE AND PROVIDED BY CENTRAL FLORIDA VOCAL ARTS
Students perform during CFVA Summer Institute
Jaquay Pearce plays for students at a CFVA Summer Concert
Theresa Smith-Levin, Founder and Chief Executive Director, Central Florida Vocal Arts
Photo Credit: Angela Robbins, Shot of Moxie
“Central Florida Vocal Arts is a place where young people have access to experiences that shape them as people and change their life.”
In a city like ours, history is highly valued. The angular brick structure at 460 E New England Avenue is one of the first landmarks you’re likely to spot as you drive down Fairbanks Avenue and into downtown Winter Park. Striking a slightly discordant note, the 3 story building towers above its nearby neighbors and has been sitting empty for some time now. Built in 1979 and expanded in 1995, it’s been said this building provides an invisible barrier of sorts. As you drive by it, you’ve officially entered into the heart of Winter Park.
Winter Park resident and Founder and Chief Executive Director of Central Florida Vocal Arts, Theresa Smith-Levin, drives by the old library building regularly. When the new library and events center opened several years ago, like all of us, Theresa celebrated. An architectural masterpiece and a community hub, it represents growth and progress and has become a perfect backdrop for hosting conferences and upscale events since its grand opening.
“I was born in Winter Park hospital and have called Winter Park home my entire life. And ever since the new library opened and I noticed the old library was just sitting there, I couldn’t stop thinking about it,” Theresa explained. “What would become of it? I certainly had my dreams for what I thought would make sense. As a parent, an artist and an educator, I know what I felt was missing from downtown Winter Park and it felt like the perfect place to fill that gap.”
Dreams of honoring the legacy of learning while breathing new life into this space, Theresa’s passion for community building through artistic placemaking and a vision of one day calling the old library building home, just came to fruition.
“Central Florida Vocal Arts is a place where young people have access to experiences that shape them as people and change their life. Our students find connection here. They connect to their peers and to adults who care about them and believe in their potential but even more importantly they connect more deeply to themselves. We’ve had so much impact already as an organization but the crazy thing is we’ve never had our own space. We’ve been holding events and summer programming borrowing spaces while never having a place to call home. That building was meant to be the place for us and I knew it in my soul. I just had to figure out how to make the dream a reality.” Theresa explained.
Chris Cortez of Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts landed on a similar vision for the building. After losing a lease on a building on Kentucky Avenue to a developer sale, the nonprofit that provides affordable family-friendly music and visual arts performances has been floating through performance locations since January 2024. He put together a proposed library reuse for bringing an exciting performing arts space to Winter Park. But there was another proposal in progress and Chris would lean into his friends in the arts community to bring a viable alternative to a June 12th Commission meeting. After hours of passionate discussion and public comment, the Winter Park City Commission voted four-to-one to approve their proposal, putting both Chris and Theresa in their new home. The Blue Bamboo’s proposal provided space for three arts nonprofits and kept an eye on the non profit community in a broad sense offering a third floor flex space that can host charitable community happenings.
That building was meant to be the place for us and I knew it in my soul. I just had to figure out how to make the dream a reality. “ ”
When I spoke with Chris Cortez about the winning proposal and what we can expect for the future, he explained that the building has great bones and while there had been discussions with other groups about elaborate renovations, it wasn’t needed to get the building reopened to serve the citizens of Winter Park. They plan to make some updates to bring the building up to code and ADA compliance and they’ll be building a stage. Pressure washing the exterior and adding some new landscaping is also on the agenda; but the reopening obstacles are nothing that some minor construction, cleaning and fresh paint can’t solve. Chris and Theresa have come together to commit to a 20 year lease on the building and are bringing several other entities along with them, all with missions surrounding art and music education as well as performing.
Both Chris and Theresa have expressed that a future capital raise for more elaborate improvements is an option, but their goal in the short term is to get the building open and begin using the space to get people performing and making music together.
I stopped by the Central Florida Vocal Arts Summer Institute amidst writing this article. They are currently operating at The Ren Theatre on Princeton in Orlando. I spoke to 16 year old Lily Kramer who first attended CFVA programming during the summer of 2020 through a virtual camp that was completely remote. Since then she’s auditioned and performed in The Sound of Music and had what she described as a life changing performance opportunity on the stage at Dr. Phillips Center. A Winter Park High School student, The Summer Institute has been her favorite high school extracurricular activity
and has given her a confidence boost she’ll carry with her throughout her life.
I also talked to 17 year old Prophesy Baker. She explained to me that she loved singing since she was 3 years old but she was quiet and lacked the confidence to perform. She began taking private voice lessons with CFVA because of a unique program in partnership with Orange County Public Schools called Arts 1:1. In this program, students who might otherwise not have access to this type of arts instruction get a chance to work closely with a teacher like Ms. Sarah Lysiak. Prophesy has been in the program for several years now and she said her connection with Ms. Sarah is one built on trust that led to her growth and progress. Prophesy learned to be vulnerable with her teacher while her voice might crack and she might make mistakes, with coaching and encouragement she is now certain music will be part of her life forever. These are life skills that Prophesy can take with her into every space now, not just the performance hall. She is currently interning with CFVA and plans to pursue music in college and as a career.
I asked Theresa what moving into this new space means to her. She explained to me that as arts leaders we need to be future focused. We see audiences dwindling and the support for performing arts is a crucial part of the community. We have an epidemic of isolation in our country and Winter Park is no exception. Through this opportunity there is a chance to change the lives of countless people young and old. This building is not only the gateway to Winter Park, it will now serve as a gateway to a lasting legacy of impact.
ARTICLE BY BRANDE DILS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY OLIVIA SHANNON
Staycation A Paw-some
HOSTED BY MELIÁ ORLANDO CELEBRATION AND THE WILSON BACKYARD
Ruby, a Cavalier King Charles, living her best life!
Benjamin and I recently decided to treat ourselves and our furry friends to a staycation at the Meliá Orlando Celebration Hotel. It wasn’t just any weekend getaway—it was during their special dog party weekend, part of their newly launched Pet Friendly by Meliá program. As dog lovers, we couldn’t resist the opportunity to spend some quality time with our pups in a place that truly understands and celebrates our four-legged companions.
From the moment we checked in, we knew this was going to be a special experience. At the front desk, we were greeted warmly and our dogs received their own VIP treatment with a welcome gift that included a dog bowl and treats in the room. This thoughtful gesture set the tone for the rest of our stay.
Our room was a delightful surprise. Not only was it spacious and comfortable, but it also came equipped with cozy dog beds and water bowls. It was clear that Meliá Orlando Celebration had put a lot of thought into making their pet guests feel just as welcome as their human counterparts. After settling in, we took a stroll to the on-property dog park, complete with an agility course.
Miles Dils happy after eating his doggie burger!
Duke is a Catahoula Great Dane
The highlight of our stay was undoubtedly the Dog Party on Saturday afternoon. From 1 to 3 p.m., the outdoor patio at The Wilson was transformed into a doggy paradise. The Ball Pit was a hit, with dogs diving in and having the time of their lives. And for those needing a bit of puppy love, there were puppies needing to be adopted.
One of the unique features of the event was the Dog Menu at The Wilson. Yes, you read that right—there’s a special menu just for dogs! We treated our pups to some gourmet doggy dishes while we enjoyed a delicious lunch. The Wilson, which is located on-site, offers a fantastic selection of food for both humans and dogs. Later that evening, Benjamin and I decided to indulge in a dinner at The Wilson, sans the dogs. It was nice to have a little alone time while knowing our furry friends were comfortably resting in the room. The food was exceptional, and the ambiance was perfect for a relaxing evening.
The entire weekend was filled with fun, relaxation, and plenty of pampering for both us and our pets. It was clear that the Meliá Orlando Celebration Hotel takes their Pet Friendly by Meliá program seriously, ensuring every detail is tailored to provide an exceptional experience for dog owners and their pets.
Trust us, your pups will thank you!
Benjamin Dils and his favorite pup, Miles
ARTICLE BY ANGELA ROBBINS
BY ANGELA ROBBINS, SHOT OF MOXIE
55 Years of Benefits Mastery
MEET THE FATHER AND SON TEAM BEHIND FRINGE BENEFIT PLANS OF WINTER PARK
For 55 years, Fringe Benefit Plans, Inc of Winter Park has been more than just a business; it’s been a trusted partner for local companies looking to attract and retain top talent. Founded by Steve Foreman in 1969, the firm has grown into a comprehensive provider specializing in employee benefit programs, executive benefits, retirement plans and insurance. Steve founded the agency centered around a passion for helping businesses succeed through the power of offering fringe employee benefits.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Doug Foreman and Steve Foreman
“People associate benefits with a company expense... we want our clients to see the perspective that benefits add tremendous value to the culture of an organization.”
Employee benefits are a big investment for a company and when done well can offer a competitive edge that attracts top talent and leads to a healthy and successful organization. In 1990, Steve’s son, Doug Foreman, joined the company and now leads as CEO, continuing a family legacy that spans three generations in the life and health insurance industry.
“We work hand-in-hand with our clients, almost like a “part time employee” extension of their HR department, to create personalized benefits packages that meet each company’s unique needs. People associate benefits with being a company expense, but we want our clients to see the perspective that benefits add tremendous value to the culture of an organization,” explained Doug Foreman, CEO of Fringe Benefit Plans.
Recognizing that benefits are a significant investment that should deliver high value, Fringe Benefit Plans strives to become an extension of its clients’ HR departments. The firm works closely with each client to craft unique benefits packages tailored to their specific needs. At the core of Fringe Benefit Plans’ mission are the values of teamwork, empathy, excellence, and growth, guiding their dedicated service to the Central Florida business community.
The Fringe Benefit Plans team is proud to be a part of the Winter Park community and look forward to many more years of helping local businesses thrive.
Winter Park YMCA Family Center
A Cornerstone of Community Wellness and Engagement
ARTICLE BY KEVIN BOLDING, PRESIDENT, YMCA OF CENTRAL FLORIDA PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY &BARR
Located at 1201 N Lakemont Ave, the Winter Park YMCA first opened its doors in June 1967, thanks to the efforts of local volunteers, donors, and community leaders, including former Winter Park Mayor Daniel Hunter, who helped secure the Y’s location. Over the past 57 years, the Winter Park Y has become woven into the tapestry of the community. We love to hear stories of adults who had their first job as a Winter Park Y lifeguard or parents who grew up at the Y and now have their own children growing up there too. These parents are often now Y volunteer coaches for their kids. They give back because they understand that strong communities do not happen by accident. They also understand that having a thriving Winter Park Y is a key ingredient to having a thriving Winter Park, and so they want to be part of stewarding it well for the next generation.
As a community-supported nonprofit, the Y also takes this generational approach. We’re keeping one eye on how to best serve residents today while keeping the other eye on sustaining our facility for the long term and providing new services that meet ever-increasing and evolving preventative health needs. Here are a few ways the Winter Park Y is taking on this challenge to ensure Winter Park remains a strong, vibrant, and healthy community.
FOCUS ON TEENS AND KIDS
No matter the time of year or age, our kids need a safe, welcoming place to stay active, make friends, and learn new things. The Winter Park Y provides many options for kids to stay engaged based on their interests and age. Year-long swim lessons are available, providing kids with the opportunity to improve their swimming skills and water safety. Additionally, youth sports leagues, including soccer, basketball, and volleyball, offer structured and fun activities that keep kids physically active while learning the importance of teamwork and discipline. For parents with young children, the Y offers a Child Watch program. This service allows children under 12 who are included in their parent’s membership to enjoy a safe and entertaining environment while their parents grow healthier. The Child Watch program is staffed by trained caregivers, ensuring that children are well looked after and engaged in age-appropriate activities, giving parents peace of mind and the freedom to focus on their fitness and wellness goals.
HEALTHY LIVING PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS AND SENIORS
The Winter Park Y offers a variety of fitness classes, wellness programs, and social activities for adults of all ages, including yoga, Pilates, Zumba, and strength training. Specialized activities for older adults, like water aerobics and chair yoga, promote physical health and social connections. Wellness workshops cover nutrition, stress management, and chronic disease prevention.
“So, my invitation to you is to get involved—whether as a member, volunteer, team member, advocate, partner, or donor. Not only will it change your life for the better, but it will also change the lives of those around you for the better.”
DROWNING PREVENTION AND COMMUNITY OUTREACH
The Winter Park Y is a wellness hub hosting free community events, health screenings, and workshops. A partnership with Eatonville provides swim instructors and lifeguards, thanks to volunteer Marilyn Nelson and donors like Melissa Mishoe. The Y is where all ages and backgrounds come together to grow healthier.
AND IT DEPENDS ON YOU!
So, my invitation to you is to get involved— whether as a member, volunteer, team member, advocate, partner, or donor. Not only will it change your life for the better, but it will also change the lives of those around you for the better. Stop by the Winter Park Y and join together with us to keep Winter Park the special place that it is now and for generations to come.
Bernadette Girvin Michelle
407.627.0091
bernadette@ michelle@ gfgfinancial.com
My Dog Rocks:
Celebrating the Bond Between Humans and Their Dogs
Award-winning photographer Rinat Halon is redefining the traditional pet portrait with her latest project, “My Dog Rocks.” This stunning book aims to capture the unique bond between humans and their canine companions, showcasing the love and connection that makes every dog truly special.
“My Dog Rocks” is not just a collection of beautiful photographs; it’s a heartfelt tribute to our four-legged friends. Each portrait session with Halon is an experience designed to bring out the best in both the dogs and their owners, resulting in images that are both timeless and deeply personal.
The impact of “My Dog Rocks” goes beyond the pages of the book, and Halon has created an opportunity for the Greater Orlando community to get involved in a meaningful way. Readers can nominate their favorite local dog rescue to receive all proceeds from the book’s sales. This initiative ensures that the project will benefit not only those who participate but also the broader community of dogs in need.
ARTICLE BY BRANDE DILS | PHOTOGRAPHY
BY RINAT HALON
To celebrate the launch of “My Dog Rocks,” Halon is hosting a VIP book release party in November. This exclusive event will include the drawing of the winning dog rescue, which will receive all the book proceeds and 10% of all sponsorship fees. Guests at the party will enjoy an evening of celebration, surrounded by fellow dog lovers and the incredible images that Halon has captured.
At the time of publishing, there are 5 spots left to get involved in this beautiful coffee table book. Sales of the book will open to the public in September for a limited time - these can be great holiday gifts for the dog lover in your life.
“My Dog Rocks” promises to be a beautiful and impactful tribute to the dogs that bring so much joy to our lives. It’s a must-see project for anyone who understands the special place that dogs hold in our hearts.
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AUGUST 7TH
NEW Lake Nona Farmers Market
Laureate Park Village Center | 5:30 PM
A new evening farmers market is perfect for summer! Enjoy a family night on the first Wednesdays of every month. The market includes local farmers, artisans and vendors, as well as residents of Lake Nona.
AUGUST 7TH
Winter Park City Magazine's August Issue Party
AJ Chocolate House, 552 S. Park Avenue, Winter Park | 5:30 PM
Winter Park VIP and Winter Park City Magazine have partnered up once again to celebrate the August issue of the magazine. This month we will be celebrating at AJ Chocolate House. Registration will be available at WinterParkVip.com . The event is free, space is limited.
AUGUST 17TH-18TH
9th Annual Florida Kids and Family Expo
Orange County Convention Center 10:00 AM
For two days, you can visit the largest kids and family expo in the country! Full of exhibitors that provide hundreds of resources to you as a parent, this must-attend indoor expo can lead you to finding everything you need, from services, products and medical, to education, activities and sports. August 17th 10 AM-4 PM and August 18th 11 AM-5 PM
GRETCHEN LEARY’S SCHOOL for LEFTHANDED GIRLS
CO-AUTHORED BY WINTER PARK TEEN; OUR FIRST AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT
Published in early 2024, Gretchen Leary’s School for LeftHanded Girls, co-authored by Winter Park high school sophomore Astrid Feeny and her cousin, Connecticut high school junior Bronwyn Fitzgerald, follows overlooked sibling Pippa Webster, age 10, who is unceremoniously shipped off by her parents to a top-secret boarding school for lefthanded girls. Pippa unexpectedly comes to love her new home away from home upon meeting four plucky roommates whose adventures and mischief inspire the group’s unrelenting fun. Although Pippa has finally found a place that makes her feel special, a dark force threatens the fate of the school and its students. This clever story, with all of its twists, turns and cliffhanger ending, will no doubt captivate young readers.
The cousins began creating this suspenseful story four years ago, when Astrid was 12 and Bronwyn was 13. They co-wrote the book using Google Docs, regularly calling and FaceTiming with one another and refer to it as “a total team effort” over a four-year collaboration.
Astrid says, “Writing this book has truly been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” while Bronwyn commented “Gretchen Leary’s School for Left-Handed Girls is exactly the type of novel I would have loved to read growing up!” Gretchen Leary’s School for Left-Handed Girls is now available at Barrett Bookstore in Darien, CT and on Amazon, with partial proceeds being donated to Best Buddies.
Astrid is the daughter of Ingrid and Martin Feeny of Winter Park. Bronwyn’s parents, Romy and Devin Fitzgerald of Darien, CT, were both raised in Winter Park.
