Baldwin Park Living May 2023

BALDWIN PARK LIVING

MAY 2023

2017

"If you are looking for a Realtor who is knowledgeable, experienced, professional, savvy and kind-hearted, then I strongly and unequivocally recommend Kimberley Gernert. She helped us strategically navigate the market to find a home for our lifestyle. Her professionalism, enthusiasm and good-natured wit alleviated stress every step of the way. Then, she turned around and sold our current home within the month. It was certainly smooth sailing

“I am new to the Orlando area, but I knew I wanted to live in the beautiful Baldwin Park area. I was referred to Kimberley Gernert by another BP homeowner. Kimberley helped me navigate through the entire process, from finding a beautiful new home, to selecting a mortgage broker, and the closing process. If you are looking for a new home or looking to sell, you want Kimberley as your realtor. Her knowledge of the market and customer service is excellent.”

THIS MOTHER’S DAY

Our team of expert financial advisors can help her plan for the future and achieve her financial goals. With our personalized approach, we’ll take the time to understand her unique financial situation and develop a customized plan.

Whether she’s looking to save for retirement, plan for her children’s education, or simply manage her finances more effectively, we have the expertise to help.

Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Let your money and Fortress work harder for you.

Fortress Wealth Group CEO John Ledford and his family are residents of Baldwin Park.

CONTENTS

SPOOKY SHOP

FRIGHT SIGHTS

Baldwin Park resident Bryan Murphy opened Atomic Horror recently.

MAY 2023 DEPARTMENTS

8 BALDWIN PARK NOTEBOOK

Read about recent decisions made by community leaders.

12 WE ARE BALDWIN PARK! Practice the power of inclusivity and kindness.

14 SASS AFTER 60 Liz Kitchens is excited to release her first book.

16 SPRINGTIME FUN

Baldwin Park Elementary throws 2023 Spring Fest.

18 SELLING

See one home that sold recently in Baldwin Park.

19 BEAUTIFUL BALDWIN

Here’s the perfect way to end the school year in Baldwin.

20 FROM THE COVER Reach your stretch goals with these yoga classes.

BALDWIN PARK LIVING

MAY 2023

Editor and Publisher Michael Eng, meng@orangeobserver.com

EDITORIAL

Design Editor — Jessica Eng, jeng@orangeobserver.com

News Editor — Annabelle Sikes, asikes@orangeobserver.com

Contributors — Brie Bernstel and Will Campbell

ADVERTISING

Sales Manager Cyndi Gustafson, cgustafson@orangeobserver.com

PRODUCTION

Graphic Designer — Andrea Rukstalis, arukstalis@orangeobserver.com

CONTACT

To submit story ideas, calendar listings or have your event considered for coverage, contact Annabelle Sikes at asikes@orangeobserver.com.

For advertising inquiries, call (407) 656-2121.

Baldwin Park Living is a monthly publication of the Observer Media Group published in partnership with the Baldwin Park Joint Committee Inc.

IF YOU WANT TO GIVE YOUR HOUSE PERSONALITY, IT MIGHT AS WELL BE A COLORFUL ONE.

HOW WE ROLL.

Baldwin Park notebook

ROA BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING BY STACEY

FRYREAR

The following information is a glimpse of the ROA’s general updates for the month. A copy of the official March 28, 2023, Regular Meeting Minutes and the April 7, 2023, Special Meeting Minutes can be obtained on the Community Network, BaldwinParkNetwork.com.

The board approved the following items/work:

n The board appointed Mr. Agranoff and Mrs. Navarro to a Swim Club Committee that will review the revised Baldwin Park Swim Club proposal, which was scheduled to be brought back to the April 25, 2023, meeting.

n The board approved the property policy insurance renewals for 2023.

n The board approved abating trashcan violation actions until April 25, 2023.

n Mr. Burnett and Ms. Fryrear will attend a future Townhome Service Area meeting to provide a synopsis of the trash can situation and ask the committee for feedback.

n The board approved the 2024 Reserve Study Update Proposal by Dreux Isaac & Associates.

n The board approved Wayne Automatics Grace Hopper Hall sprinkler inspection contract.

n The board approved the following work:

• Prime and paint bathroom stalls at Grace Hopper and High Park pools

• Remove live oak (No. 52) at Union Park, because it has canker disease

• Plant fill-ins at Bailey Square

• Plant replacements at Nolan Square

• Plant and drain install at Enders Park

UPDATES COMPLETED ACTIONS

1. Painting of City Homes No. 2 Mews bollard lighting.

2. Cleaning and painting of City Homes No. 2 and City Homes No. 3 Mews knee walls and benches.

3. Cleaning, caulking and painting of the Longview pergola.

4. Cleaning, caulking and painting pergola at Parkland Quadrangle.

5. Cleaning and painting of Parks/ Mews benches, trashcans, bike racks and sign posts.

6. Canopy trees and crepe myrtles in the Parks/Mews have been hazard-pruned and or V-shaped. In addition, all mistletoe was removed.

7. St. Augustine sod repairs at Ardsdale and Lower Union Mews.

8. Top off of ADA playground mulch at Union Park.

9. Sod replacement at Union Park playground.

10. Top off of ADA playground mulch at Enders.

11. Extension arms for two of Enders pool deck cameras were installed for better viewing.

12. All pool bath floors at Enders have been repainted by SMI Maintenance.

13. Wall repair at Enders fitness center by SMI Maintenance.

14. Wall repair in Grace Hopper gathering room (event). Owner reimbursed ROA for expense.

15. Men’s pool restroom floor at Grace Hopper was painted by SMI Maintenance.

16. Step risers in stairwell at Grace Hopper have been re-glued by SMI Maintenance.

17. All pool bath floors at High Park have been repainted by SMI Maintenance.

18. Installation of new hinges on pool gates at High Park by SMI Maintenance.

19. All Bermuda turf was aerated (done twice a year).

HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR OWNERS CANOPY TREE PRUNING

There are many reasons to prune a tree. These are some of the most common.

1. Clearance. Elevating the lower limbs on a tree provides safe clearance to pedestrians over walkways. Trees located by driveways and right of ways should also be elevated appropriately for traffic and signage visibility.

2. Plant health. Pruning can be used to remove or control pests and disease on parts of the trees. This may increase the opportunity to avoid unnecessary use of pesticides and prevent the problem form spreading on to healthy parts of the tree. This is a good alternative when the pest/disease infestation is minor and limited to a few branches.

3. Protect structures. Pruning branches away from buildings helps to reduce pest access, reduces moisture and avoids friction of limbs against walls and windows.

4. Storm-damage mitigation. Pruning selected interior branches of a tree will allow better wind flow thought the canopy and produce less resistance, which will reduce the possibility of breakage in the structure of the canopy.

5. Crown reduction. Pruning can be used to give a tree the desired size and control growth in limited space.

Please keep safety in mind at all times and make sure you have the appropriate equipment, experience and knowledge for the task you want to accomplish. Accidents while doing tree work are very common, mainly because of lack of experience and safety awareness. If in doubt, consult a tree-care company with the expertise and equipment necessary for a successful and safe

20. Fifth specialized weed treatment application was completed.

21. Mailing of notice to members related to the adoption of the basketball equipment policy and change to Exhibit C was mailed April 7. The amendment will take affect 30 days after the mailing.

PENDING ACTIONS

1. A few items are being ordered for the Grace Hopper fitness center (rope pull and floor mats).

2. Modernization of elevator at Grace Hopper approved in February.

3. Pressure wash, caulk and touch up paint exterior of Grace Hopper Hall.

4. Pressure wash, caulk and touch up paint exterior of High Park.

5. Pool rules signs were ordered and will include newly required language by Florida Department of Health.

6. Pressure wash, caulk and touch up paint exterior of Enders.

7. Clean Enders roofs.

8. Delivery of picnic tables for High Park large pavilion and Ender’s playground.

9. Proposals related to 2023 reserve expenditures per the 2023 Reserve Study Update:

• Replacing all shutters at Grace Hopper Hall

• Repaint all interior walls, doors, trim, etc. at Grace Hopper Hall

• Replace shower tile at Enders pool with tile like the tile at Grace Hopper pool

• Asphalt overlay 1-inch Enders parking lot

• City Homes No. 3 Mews fountain basin resurfacing

• City Homes No. 3 Mews fountain equipment

• Ardsdale Mews brick wall repair

• Baskin Mews brick wall repair

• Union Mews brick wall repair

TOWNHOME SERVICE AREA COMMITTEE MEETING

BY MELISSA PARKER

The March 2023 Townhome Service Area Committee meeting was canceled. A copy of previous official minutes can be obtained on the Community Network, BaldwinParkNetwork.com.

UPDATES

n Please remember to report any landscape, building or irrigation issues on Baldwin Park Solutions. Reporting items on Baldwin Park Solutions allows residents to share photos of the reported area(s) and receive real-time updates from management staff on corrective measures being taken. Baldwin Park Solutions can be accessed on the Baldwin Park Network.

n Roof replacements are occurring in the Issa 28 service area (not all addresses will have roof replacements this year; some addresses are listed to be replaced in 2024 per the Reserve Study). A notice will be left on the townhome’s front door a week prior to the projected start date confirming the roof replacement is beginning. Make sure to remove all items located in the backyard/private zone area, as well as any that may be attached to the roof (e.g., satellite dishes or cameras). The roofing contractor nor the association will be held responsible for these items. The buildings to receive roof replacements within Issa 28 are the following:

n 4450-4470 Twinview Lane: Completed

n 4451-4475 Twinview Lane: In progress

n 4479-4499 Twinview Lane: End of April/early May

Advanced Roofing will release a more detailed schedule to the community for roof replacements once the exact dates have been selected.

n City Homes No. 1 will be next to receive roof replacements following the completion of Issa 28. No schedule is available at this time, but it has been projected that the re-roofing project will begin in the summer. All 31 townhome buildings, within City Homes No. 1, will receive roof replacements and new gutters. This is considered a huge project, so there has been a ton of planning involved. More information will be released to the community as it becomes available.

n New sod that was installed in April has been treated with a fungicide.

n BrightView is continuing to monitor any landscaping that has been impacted by the recent drought conditions. Irrigation has been adjusted to allow for additional watering until the rainy season has arrived.

n Any pots located within plant-bed areas or on porches are the responsibility of the resident to maintain. If a plant species begins to take over the plant bed, then the resident can be issued a covenant violation to preserve the integrity of the plant bed. Unkept vines growing from pots also can creep up downspouts and on to townhome buildings and cause damage. If damage occurs, the resident will be financially responsible for the repairs — not the entire service area.

n Per DRS Inc. here is the Townhome painting schedule for April 2023: Issa 22: 1024 Lake Baldwin Lane, 4701-4749 Fox Street.

n Per DRS Inc. here is the Townhome maintenance schedule for April/May: City Homes No. 1.

Schedules will be projected one to two months out to anticipate any possible future changes or delays. Notices are still being left on townhome front doors one to two weeks in advance to inform residents of any upcoming projects beginning in their address range.

HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR TOWNHOME OWNERS

This is a reminder that the association does not maintain or make any repairs on behalf of the townhome owners, to any balconies and/ or sundecks within Baldwin Park. Tile floors on exterior porches or balconies may require grout sealing to prevent water damage. The grout may need to be touched up from time to time as the flooring ages.

Likewise, remember to re-caulk around any window or door areas where caulking has shrunken because of sun or weather exposure. Sundecks should be examined annually to make sure everything is “water tight” and that no leaks are occurring at either your townhome or to the townhome located next to you.

Baldwin Park notebook

Continued from page 9

BALDWIN PARK COMMERCIAL OWNERS ASSOCIATION INC.

May is the beginning of the summer holidays. With Mother’s Day and Memorial Day coming up, do not forget to get all your presents at one of the amazing Village Center shops. Why not take Mom to one of Baldwin Park’s fine restaurants for her special day?

THINGS TO KNOW

n New ARC Process. The ARC Committee approved an updated ARC process and application. Keep an eye out for the roll-out. The new application and process will be posted on the Baldwin Park Network.

n Architectural Review Committee. Any change to the building or property must have an application submitted for review. Some examples of re-

quired reviews are commercial changes to exterior structures (roofing replacements and painting), landscaping and any signage. For the city to approve permits, the Commercial Owners Association must sign off on the project. All corresponding applications can be located on the Baldwin Park Network under Commercial Owners Association and Commercial Architectural Review Committee. For questions and application submission please feel free to email Bill at BPatterson@ BaldwinParkPOA.com.

n Covenant Inspections. Like the ROA, the COA also has covenant standards. The property manager conducts monthly inspections of the parking lots and building to ensure these

BY BILL PATTERSON

standards are being kept. Any property not in compliance will get a violation. Covenant Committee Meetings are held on the fourth Tuesday of each month if needed.

n Baldwin Park Solutions. Commercial owners, tenants and managers can submit work requests through our new Baldwin Park Solutions system. It is located on the Baldwin Park Network. Simply click “Resident Home” at the top right, and you will find the link in the middle of the page. If you do not have a Baldwin Park Network account, you can request one from that page as well. Go to baldwinparknetwork.com to get started.

n Trash Talk. The dumpsters in the commercial lots are meant for trash bags and small items

only. For all large items, please use OUC bulk pick-up. Stuffing these items in the dumpster or leaving them causes multiple issues, including dumpster breakdown and rodents. Visit orlando.gov/Trash-Recycling for more information and to schedule future pick-ups.

n Loading Zones. Most parking lots around Baldwin Park have loading zones. These areas are for short-term loading and unloading vehicles only — and not for parking. Please make deliveries and unloads quick, because it can cause a traffic jam if these zones are blocked. Vehicles parked in these areas which are not loading/unloading will be tagged for towing at owner’s expense.

Stephenie Poris, MD Stephenie Poris, MD

WE ARE BALDWIN PARK!

The power of inclusivity and kindness

WILL

Hello friends and neighbors! As always, it’s great to be able to spend this time, albeit a few brief minutes of reading, with you each month. I recently had a conversation with a friend about the overall power of kindness and the impact that being included could have on someone, and that gave me some motivation for this month’s article.

In today’s world, it can be challenging to always be kind and inclusive. We live in a society that is often divided by so many differences — whether they be cultural, social or economic — especially nowadays. These differences can make it difficult to see the humanity in one another and can create a sense of “us versus them.”

However, the power of kindness and inclusivity can overcome these divisions and bring us closer together as a community.

Kindness is the act of being friendly, generous and considerate toward others. When we show kindness to others, it can have a profound impact on their lives. It can lift their spirits, create a sense of belonging, and make them feel valued and appreciated.

However, kindness alone is not enough to create a truly inclusive community. Inclusivity is the act of including all individuals — regardless of their background or differences. It is about creating a sense of unity and belonging that goes beyond the surface level of our differences. When we are inclusive, we are creating a safe space where everyone feels valued and respected.

In today’s world, it can be challenging to be kind and inclusive all the time. There are many factors that contribute to feelings of division and exclusion, such as political polarization, economic inequality and social media. These factors can make it hard to see the humanity in one another and can create a sense of “otherness” that can be difficult to overcome.

Despite these challenges, it is essential to remember the power of kindness and inclusivity — and to make an effort to embody these qualities in our daily lives. One way to do this is to practice empathy and understanding. By putting ourselves in the shoes of others, we can begin to see the world from their perspective, and can create a sense of connection and compassion.

Another way to cultivate kindness and inclusivity is to actively seek out opportunities to learn about and engage with different groups of people. This can involve attending cultural events, volunteering for a local charity or simply striking up a conversation with someone who has a different background. By learning about — and celebrating — our differences, we can create a more inclusive and harmonious world.

In addition to personal benefits, kindness and inclusivity also can have a profound impact on our communities. When we are kind and inclusive, it creates a sense of unity and belonging that can help to address social issues such as poverty, inequality and social injustice. By working together to create a more inclusive world, we can create positive change that benefits us all.

The power of kindness and inclusivity cannot be underesti-

mated. These qualities have the power to bring us closer together as a community and to create a more compassionate world. Despite the challenges of modern life, it is essential to make an effort to be kind and inclusive every day. By cultivating empathy, understanding and a willingness to learn about — and engage with — different cultures and communities, we can create a more inclusive world for ourselves and those around us. So let us all strive to be kinder, more inclusive, and more compassionate, and let us work together to create a better world for all.

To bring it all home, quite literally, Baldwin Park is a perfect example of the power of kindness and inclusivity. As I’ve written before, Baldwin is so much more than the large homes you see as you enter and the Village Center. There are people from all walks of life that meld together to make this great community that we have. We are privileged in that, at any given moment, you can talk to a resident or business owner who likely has an alternative perspective on a topic that you may be set in your ways about.

Now is not the time to be divided but rather to come together to help build the future that many of your children, and their children, will inhabit. Something as small as a hello when passing someone on New Broad Street, or picking up a dropped item and returning it to Grace Hopper Hall, or even offering up an extra chair from your table at bingo night at a local business can help make a difference and change someone’s day for the better.

Until next time, stay safe, stay well, and remember: We Are Baldwin Park!

CAMPBELL PRESIDENT BALDWIN PARK JOINT COMMITTEE

Webreck, moved to Baldwin Park a little over a year ago and said they love it.

Murphy grew up on Jacksonville Beach and attended the University of Central Florida, so he knew the area would be the perfect spot to kick start his new business, especially being near the theme parks.

With the help of his brother, Jason Murphy — skilled in both movie-making and special effects the pair crafted the entire store from scratch with the help of a few friends.

One of the store’s main draws is its rooms dedicated to different films and eras, complete with a multitude of photo opportunities.

Noticeable props include Basket Case and Michael Myers, as well as an Elvira-themed room and a Tiki-themed section.

Scare tactics

ber ducks, and much more.

Owner Bryan Murphy says he has always had a fascination with horror.

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Anew business right outside Baldwin Park is a horror fan’s paradise.

Atomic Horror, which opened on East Colonial Drive last September, brings nightmares to life with its merchandise inspired by iconic horror movies and television shows.

Visitors are surrounded by a horror horde of creepy creatures as they browse a massive selection of unique and terrifying items. The shop offers everything from art, collectibles, shirts, pins and stickers, to stationery, bags, decor, candles, rub-

“I was an 11-year-old dressing up as Freddy Krueger,” Murphy says. “It was a deep interest — something I always thought was fun, especially decorating for Halloween which was the highlight of the year. … I just have never gotten tired of this stuff.”

SCREAMING START

After living in New York City for the past 20 years, Murphy decided to move on from his political research job and was looking for a new opportunity.

He considered data analysis, but when he thought about what he truly loved being around, the answer was simple: horror.

Murphy decided he wanted to open his own horror shop, but he knew it would be too expensive in NYC.

Murphy and his girlfriend, Erin

“People have told me the store accurately describes some of their favorite things in their head,” Bryan Murphy said. “It’s a lot of fun; there aren’t any rules. Eventually, I’ll run out of room, but for now I just keep adding on.”

IT’S A LIFESTYLE

Bryan Murphy appreciates a range of horror types but especially enjoys serious films and classics such as the 1931 Dracula with Bela Lugosi. He also has a special affinity for 1950s, 1960s and 1970s films.

“It was just so fun to watch as a kid,” he says. “I just really appreciate people putting something like that together without the money, without the resources — just going out and making something. It’s art for art’s sake, because they were passionate about something and took a chance and they made their own bad movie.”

The shop recently began participating in local events such as Mills Mart, and has been at big fan conventions including Spooky Empire and Spookala.

In the future, Bryan Murphy would like Atomic Horror to host events of its own.

“It’s a labor of love just as much as it’s a business, and so far, I just keep putting the money back in,” he says of the business. “We’re young, but we’re doing well — but we’re also still trying to grow.”

Baldwin Park resident Bryan Murphy has opened his new eerie business in town — Atomic Horror.

Annabelle Sikes

Bryan Murphy said he has had an infatuation with horror since he was a child.

Sass after 60

While beige is reliable, practical, sensible, doesn’t put up a fuss, blends in and is safe, magenta is rich, dynamic, loud, sometimes garish, and not overlooked easily.

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Liz Kitchens is defying beige expectations and coloring outside the lines with the upcoming release of her first book, “Be Brave. Lose the Beige! Finding Your Sass After Sixty.”

The candid, tongue-in-cheek manifesto empowers women to take on their third act with confidence and sass, and is a must-have manual for “Lady Boomers” and others cresting toward retirement as they navigate what’s next.

Kitchens utilizes color as a metaphor for accessing life’s challenging issues.

Although Kitchens says society has decidedly beige expectations when it comes to aging, she explains why magenta women have more fun.

“We get too caught up in rules,” she says. “I think breaking little fine print rules is empowering. We don’t have to look old and gray with our hair back in a bun and a cane … the way they depict us. If we think a little creatively and a little outside the box, it’s empowering and enriching and we can make this phase of our lives really meaningful.”

WRITING HER TRUTH

“Be Brave. Lose the Beige! Finding Your Sass After Sixty,” was first born from Kitchens’ blog in 2009. On her blog, she began to share issues she believed “Lady Boomers” — the women of the “Baby Boomer”

generation — were facing, such as Boomerang children coming back and empty nest syndrome.

The book started out as a memoir; the book is mostly composed of stories that came from blog posts. Kitchens says the blog posts are the kernels of the stories, and she couldn’t resist preaching on creativity, which is how the ideas developed into a book.

The main message of the book is women’s empowerment.

“All women do a thousand silent things,” Kitchens says. “I just wanted them to be a little braver and bolder and step out of some of society’s lines, especially that aging.”

Kitchens had looked for resources on aging and health issues, and they were either boring or not available. She says she knew she wanted to contribute her two senses with some humor and color.

Kitchens says finding meaning is just as important in the second part of one’s lives and she hopes the book gives tips and guidance to women

“Women have often been secondary characters,” she says. “It’s not a flaming feminist book or anything, but it’s about standing up for ourselves. We’ve lived under a lot of authorities: our dads, our husbands, our lawyers. And I want women to step outside some of those. It requires some creative thinking to be able to envision that for yourself and in order to think creatively.”

In the pages, Kitchens chronicles how creative thinking helped her cope with empty nest syndrome; navigate sex over 60; transition from being “outta-sight” to literally being out of sight, and so much more.

“Women provide that safe space for other people, but we don’t provide it for ourselves enough,” she says. “This is kind of a recognition for all these things women have done their whole lives, silently half the time.”

She says she has forbidden her children and former husband from reading the book because of how candid she is with her personal journey and stories.

One of her favorite stories she tells is about her three drink strategy.

“If I’m going to sit in a restaurant

Baldwin Park resident Liz Kitchens is releasing her first book, “Be Brave. Lose the Beige! Finding Your Sass After Sixty,” May 16.

Annabelle Sikes

Liz Kitchens’ book, published by She Writes Press, is a candid, tongue-in-cheek manifesto that empowers women to take on their third act with confidence and sass.

for a while, I will have a glass of water, iced tea and wine,” she says. “You get hydration, caffeination and intoxication, which I think is a perfect triangle. … Thinking outside of the box is important even in small things that mean something to you.”

The book includes “Be Brave. Lose the Beige!” maxims throughout, and the phrases are collected at the end in a manual that gives advice, such as parenting is not a popularity contest, hold your friends dear and don’t be a victim.

In addition, there is a creativity exercise at the end of each chapter.

“I wanted to make this really fun, colorful and kind of tell self-deprecating stories about myself and me as a mom, and how I enable my children and grandchildren and kind of the history of women my age,” Kitchens says. “Women really have a lot on their shoulders, so if this book can lighten the load even a little bit. … You don’t have to break big rules or laws, you just have to do little things to really exponentially improve your life and your thinking.”

The book also includes data and research on “Lady Boomers,” which Kitchens collected using her marketing research skills, a career she has pursued for 35 years.

Kitchens thought about self-publishing but was drawn to “She Writes Press,” an award-winning hybrid publisher for women authors. The organization was the first hybrid imprint to win 2019 Independent Publisher of the Year by the Independent Book Publishing Professionals Group, which Kitchens says is what caught her eye.

Although she says the process was vigorous and frustrating at times, it made her a better writer.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kitchens was born and raised in Orlando and attended the University of Central Florida, where she studied humanities.

Kitchens and her husband moved in 2013 to Baldwin Park in pursuit of a more diverse neighborhood, which she says the area more than fulfilled.

She is the founder of “What’s Next Boomer?” a website dedicated to helping boomers navigate retirement options, as well as of the blog, “Be Brave. Lose the Beige,” which focuses on issues facing women of the “Baby Boomer” generation.

In addition, Kitchens is a contributing writer for the online magazine, “Sixty and Me,” and has been published in various online and print publications.

Although she is not an artist, Kitchens shares that she enjoys creating special moments, and does so by teaching creativity classes to about 30 women at the Center for Health and Wellbeing in Winter Park.

She has always had a love for art, and ran a ceramics program for underserved students for 18 years prior to the pandemic. She says the project taught her the impact of creativity on lives that were fraught with tragedy and trouble.

Kitchens is the mother of three adult children, and the grandmother of three grandchildren.

FOLLOW LIZ KITCHENS

Facebook: facebook.com/ BeBraveLoseTheBeige

Instagram: instagram.com/ liz_kitchens

Blog: bebravelosethebeige. com

BALDWIN PARK ELEMENTARY SPRING FEST

Baldwin Park Elementary returned with its Spring Fest Saturday, April 15. The event, led by the school’s Parent-Teacher Association, included carnival games, food trucks, bounce houses, a climbing tower, a giant maze, train rides and more family fun.

—

Inflatable slides were a popular attraction.

ANNABELLE SIKES

Above: Children enjoyed attractions such as a climbing tower.

Left: Students braved the heat of the Saturday afternoon to attend the school’s festival.

Ellie Rice and Aasha Verna watched the swings from afar at the event. Children enjoyed a cool treat under the hot summer sun.

Students cruised on train rides throughout the school’s green space.

Hayden Bean took her turn on the swings.

The Best Nurses in Orlando.

choose well.

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WHAT’S SELLING

3680 LOWER UNION ROAD, ORLANDO

SOLD PRICE: $483,500

BEDROOMS: Two

BATHROOMS: 2.5

SQUARE FOOTAGE: 1,916

DETAILS: This is a beautiful two-story townhome built by Cambridge Homes. It features excellent curb appeal with tons of potential for its future owner to model how they see fit. The home features two levels of living, with the kitchen and living on the first floor and bedrooms upstairs. A private outdoor courtyard separates the main home from the two-car garage. This home is perfectly situated to enjoy all Baldwin Park has to offer.

LISTING AGENT: Ben Laube and Jose Solis, Ben Laube Homes, EXP Realty LLC

SELLING AGENT: Kelly L. Price, Kelly Price & Company

Photographer: Rickie Agapito

The perfect way to close out the school year

The school year is heading to a close. Yippee! That means more time to explore Baldwin Park and attend all the exciting activities planned all summer long!

Get the kids giggling by attending the first ever Belly Flop Contest right on New Broad Street! Yes, you read that correctly: A BELLY FLOP CONTEST ON NEW BROAD STREET! A giant pool will be set up right out front of Tactical Brewing and will feature a contest of all contests. Contestants can dress up however they please and try to take home the gold prize for best belly flop! This event will take place from 2 to 6 p.m. May 6, and all are welcome.

Hopefully, the contest will get everyone in the swimming mood, because pool parties are back at your community pools starting the second week of June! Kona Ice will travel around the pools on select dates all summer long to hand out free shaved ice, thanks to the Baldwin Park Residential Home Owners Association. Check your weekly newsletter for more details!

May also will include the last Backyard Food Fare of the sum-

mer. The heat and rain make these events a little tricky to plan during the summer months so they take a little break until September. Enjoy live music, local food vendors and time with your neighbors beginning at 5:30 p.m. May 26 at Corrine Commons.

There may be a little extra energy around your home once school is over, but luckily, there are plenty of physical activities that are perfect for all ages. Swim lessons take place at the community pools and are a great way for kids to expand their swimming safety. There is also the weekly walking group that meets at 5:30 p.m. every Wednesday down by the lake. All are welcome to join on this easy, light walk around Lake Baldwin. You may turn back at any point and do not have to finish the full 2.5 miles. More information can be found on the Baldwin Park Network or in the weekly e-blasts.

Summer Tuesdays can only mean one thing around Baldwin Park — Taco Tuesdays! Treat

yourself after another successful school year to some margaritas and tacos at Wildflower’s newly vamped Taco Tuesday night.

Wildflower also hosts a happy hour from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays. Find more information by searching “Wildflower Orlando” on social media.

Leu Gardens also is hosting its annual dinosaur exhibit through July 9! Stroll the botanical garden in search of all of the dinosaur sculptures installed across the grounds and learn all about them. This activity is great for all ages.

Celebrate the holiday’s and bring your friends and family into Baldwin Park! Memorial Day and Mother’s Day are both coming up quickly, so make your plans ahead of time and beat the crowds. Find the perfect gift at any of Baldwin’s local businesses such as Lafayette and Rushford, Paper Goat Post, Golden Hour Wine and Victoria Jewelers. You can never go wrong with a Baldwin Park celebration!

FRIDAY, MAY 5

CINCO DE MAYO

IN BALDWIN PARK

Community Calendar

5:30 p.m. Friday, May 5, on New Broad Street. Enjoy specials at Wildflower, Colibri, Tactical Brewing, Gators Dockside and many more. There will also be a First Friday event beginning at 5:30 p.m. on New Broad Street. Follow “BP Community Market” on Facebook for the full vendor list.

HOLIDAYS

Mother’s Day:

Sunday, May 14

Memorial Day:

Monday, May 29

SATURDAY, MAY 6

BELLY FLOP COMPETITION

2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 6, on New Broad Street. Presented by Tactical Brewing, this contest also will feature beer releases, food pop-ups and vendors in front of Tactical Brewing. For more, visit TacticalBeer.com.

MONDAY, MAY 8

BALDWIN PARK SOCIAL CLUB

6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Tactical Brewing Company, 4882 New Broad St., Orlando. Come enjoy

drinks, food trucks and make new friends. To officially join the group, join “Baldwin Park Social Club” on Facebook.

THURSDAY, MAY 11

ROA ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE

Meets at 6:30 p.m. twice monthly virtually. Because of the high volume of ARC applications, the number of applications accepted is being capped at 25 per meeting. Once this number is reached, subsequent

applications will be held for the next scheduled meeting. More information can be found in your weekly newsletter.

MONDAY, MAY 15

ROA COVENANTS HEARING

6:30 p.m. Monday, May 15, at Grace Hopper Hall. More information can be found on the Baldwin Park Network.

THURSDAY, MAY 18

TOWNHOME SERVICE AREA COMMITTEE

Meets at 6:30 p.m. virtually. All information for the meeting can also be found on the Baldwin Park Network, along with the link to join the meeting.

TUESDAY, MAY 23

JOINT COMMITTEE BOARD MEETING

5:45 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 25, virtually. All information for

the meeting can also be found on the Baldwin Park Network.

ROA BOARD MEETING

6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 23, virtually. Call-in information can be found on the Baldwin Park Network. Announcements will be made in the weekly eblast if a closed meeting for attorney/ client discussions to occur prior to the regular meeting.

THURSDAY, MAY 25

ROA ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE

Meets at 6:30 p.m. twice monthly virtually. Because of the high volume of ARC applications, the number of applications accepted is being capped at 25 per meeting. Once this number is reached, subsequent applications will be held for the next scheduled meeting. More information can be found in your weekly newsletter.

FRIDAY, MAY 26

BACKYARD FOOD FARE

5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 26, at Corrine Commons. This free-toattend event will be the first of this year’s food fares take place monthly from January though May for residents and their guests. Local food vendors such as Noodle Baby, Fui Yo Mexicana, Lobos Coffee Roasters + Parlor Kitchen will take care of all your dinner needs. Why cook when delicious food will be right in your backyard? Email Brie at mediacomm@baldwinparkpoa.com with any questions. You do not have to pre-register for this event. Please take your own blanket or chair.

STRETCH GOALS

RESTORATIVE YOGA FOR WOMEN

9 to 9:55 a.m. Fridays inside Enders Park Gathering Room. This class offers Hatha-style yoga with deep stretches for the legs, arms, neck and shoulders. Take a yoga mat and a yoga block. Appropriate for beginners and great for new residents who want to meet like-minded women.

YOGA FOR STRENGTH & STAMINA

10 to 10:55 a.m. Fridays inside Enders Park Gathering Room. This is a pumped-up yoga class that combines up-tempo moves with hand weights. Appropriate for experienced yogis, or fitness enthusiasts who are accustomed to using two- and three-pound hand weights in an active workout. Take a yoga mat, hand weights and water.

OUTDOOR YOGA FLOW

9 to 9:55 a.m. Saturdays outdoors in front of Grace Hopper Hall. For all levels, this class begins with five minutes of meditation, flowing movement, balance poses and twists. It ends with meditation. Please take a yoga blanket or beach towel and water to drink. Appropriate for beginners.

OUTDOOR POWER YOGA

10 to 10:55 a.m. Saturdays in front of Grace Hopper Hall. Take light hand weights (two or three pounds) for yoga-based fitness that includes core, arm and leg strengthening moves set to up-tempo music. Please take a yoga blanket or beach towel and water to drink.

Email the instructor 24 hours before class at becca@bluemoon.yoga. Dropin is $10 for one class (cash or Venmo), or students may purchase a class pass for $45 for five classes or 10 classes for $80. Contact the instructor at (407) 276-3478 or visit bluemoon.yoga for