Giving Thanks, Giving Back!
As the season of giving thanks approaches, I’m reminded of how much we have to be grateful for— and how important it is to give back to those who need a helping hand. This month, we’re proud to highlight organizations that make a real difference in our community, like the Boys and Girls Club, Victim Service Center, 4Roots, and Junior Achievement. These nonprofits work tirelessly to support, uplift, and empower individuals and families.
With local food banks running low, there are many ways we can help. Whether it's donating food, volunteering time, or contributing financially, every little bit counts toward making our community stronger. The Boy Scouts in our community do their food drive the week of Thanksgiving. Make sure you fill up your bag and leave it our for them to come pick it up.
Personally, I am thankful for all of our partners, readers and my team here at Winter Park City Magazine. Without your support, we wouldn't be here to bring you such great stories from around our community.
Let’s all take a moment to reflect on what we have and how we can give back. Together, we can make a meaningful impact this holiday season.
BRANDE DILS, PUBLISHER
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Brande Dils | brande.dils@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Jessica Krammer | jessica.krammer@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jessica Krammer, Angela Robbins
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Angela Robbins
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
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Proverbs 3:5-6
inside the issue
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: Members of the community and One Purse Champions gathered to honor Freedom to Dream award recipients at the Alfond Inn.
Photography by Jen Adams Photo
8: Guests at The Style Issue launch party 9: Theresa Smith-Levin, founder of Central Florida Vocal Arts, and Angela Robbins, founder of Moxie Brands 10: The @orlandotravelfoodies team 11: Dr. Caryne Moodie of Pretty Moods Wellness at The Style Issue launch party 12: Brent and Amanda Kossina at The Style Issue launch party at Porsche Orlando Maitland Photography by Juan Benavides, Shot of Moxie
4 Girvins Farm: From their farm to your table!
It’s time to know your farmer just like you know your doctor! 4 Girvins Farm, a first-generation family farm, produces pastured eggs, poultry, pork, produce, and flowers, all available through their direct-to-customer delivery service. Interested in fresh, naturally grown food delivered to your door? Check them out! Through fall and winter, they also offer a unique farm-to-table dining experience in the beautiful fields of their 5-acre farm in Tavares, Florida.
Graze Craze has arrived to Winter Park!
Graze Craze is the innovator in an attractive food trend sweeping the nation known as "Grazing". Grazing allows people the flexibility to eat an entire meal or small portions of food during the course of the day. The grazing style of eating provides you and your guests with a diverse meal plan in the form of a charcuterie style grazing box. Located at: 843 S Orlando Ave, Winter Park. Visit them today!
Palmano Group Real Estate Brokerage Invests in Next Generation of Agents
Palmano Group Real Estate Brokerage welcome 6 new agents to their team in 2024. Investing in the next generation, 4 of the 6 new agents that joined the brokerage are under 30 and have collectively closed 12 million in sales in the first 3 quarters of the year. Palmano Group continues to achieve strong outcomes for buyers and sellers and is making an impact in our market, delivering a seamless client experience and commitment to quality service.
Paint Nail Bar opens in Winter Park!
The PAINT Nail Bar philosophy is simple: to provide a luxurious experience for everyone. We think it's ok to be bougie every now + then and we provide the ultimate venue for just that! Our fume-free environment is expertly designed with elegant decor, a large selection of premium products + accessories, and our high sterilization standards ensure the utmost perfection in comfort + cleanliness.
Lighthouse Central Florida CEO Speaks at 'In the Dark' Experience
Lighthouse Central Florida’s CEO, Kyle Johnson, recently delivered powerful remarks at former Nevada Congressman John Porter's inaugural "In the Dark" experience in Washington, D.C. The event was held during the 34th Anniversary of the American Disabilities Act and focused on the daily challenges faced by individuals with blindness and vision impairment. This event was designed to provide leaders from organizations across the country with a glimpse into the
of those
with vision impairment.
We are thrilled, again this year, to be one of the Presenters of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce’s
CONGRATULATIONS to all the 2024 nominees and winners!
In this season of gratitude, Lane Technology Solutions is honored to serve and support the people and businesses of Winter Park.
WE ARE HERE FOR YOU!
(407) 647-7787
1717 W. Fairbanks Ave Sales@lanetechnologysolutions.com
Second Harvest Food Bank to Receive $561,776 in State Appropriations Funding
On Thursday, Aug. 22., State Representative Susan Plasencia (R-FL 37) visited Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida to announce $561,776 in state appropriations funding. The money will support the Food Cost Mitigation Project, which will help the food bank continue feeding hope across its seven-county service area by providing more than 2.2 million meals over the next year. Photo includes: Perry Crawley, State Rep. Susan Plasencia (R-FL 37), Derrick Chubbs, Stephanie Palacios.
Your Business Announcement Here
Have news to share? We would love to help you celebrate a new launch or special milestone in your business. Contact Brande Dils to share the news! Brande.Dils@citylifestyle.com
Paving The Way Foundation Hosts
Child Safety Awareness Event
This November, Paving The Way Foundation, a 501c3, invites central Florida residents to join a national movement and show their love and support for children. Shine a blue light on your front porch in support of child safety and to raise awareness surrounding child exploitation and trafficking. The foundation is hosting Lights On For Children, a community celebration November 20th 6-8 PM at the Avalon Arts and Cultural Center. For more information about disrupting child exploitation and trafficking visit pavingthewayfoundation.org
Revive Skincare Clinic Continues Educational Event Series
Join Dr. Gregory Boger, a highly skilled ear, nose, and throat specialist and founder of Revive Skincare Clinic, and Anna Politi, an aesthetician and laser technician, as they host another sought out quarterly event on November 2nd at their office in Winter Park. Watch product demonstrations and learn about emerging technologies. Enjoy access to special offers, raffles and prizes. Space is limited so don't miss registering. Visit reviveskincareclinic.com for information.
NOURISHING OUR COMMUNITY IN EVERY SEASON OF THE YEAR
For Seasons Brings Hope: Our Community’s Lifeline
ARTICLE BY JESSICA KRAMMER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
“For Seasons has been a literal lifeline for me, and I am most grateful.”
At 5 a.m., before the sun rises and six hours before the food pantry opens, a line begins to form outside the humble doors of For Seasons Food Bank. Those who get there first see how long the line becomes and are scared - scared that those at the end of the line won’t receive enough food. During a time when grocery prices soar and wages don’t seem to be enough, For Seasons is a lifeline for families struggling to make ends meet, and this lifeline is right here in our community: Winter Park.
Hosted at St. Richard’s Episcopal Church in Winter Park, the pantry is set up as a small market to provide choice to clients and includes refrigerators and a freezer to increase the amount of fresh and healthy food options. For Seasons Food Bank has grown to serve record numbers, growing from only 12 people to over 150 each week in just over 18 months.
Today, the food bank remains 100% volunteer-operated, run by people who give their time and hearts to make sure no one goes hungry. However, the rising number of people in need means the risk of a completely empty pantry is evident. “Many of our clients are hard working people that work full time and still cannot make ends meet. We have several people that rush to the pantry on their lunch hour hoping they can get through the line in time to get back to work. We also have many clients with health conditions that make it difficult for them to work,” says Jennifer Brown, the President of For Seasons Ministries.
For many families who visit For Seasons, the constant rise in living costs means they are not just losing groceries—they are losing hope. With Thanksgiving
fast approaching, the demand will be even greater, but without enough donations, some families may go without the comfort of a warm meal on such a special day. Jennifer adds, “Last year with a large corporate donation and additional small donations we were able to buy 120 turkeys. This year, we don’t have that yet and are expecting to need 200 turkeys. Many people who used to be able to donate money or food items can no longer do that because they are now struggling financially themselves. We never thought it could get worse than last year... until we lived through this year.”
HOW YOU CAN HELP:
1. Financial Contribution: A financial donation is one of the most powerful ways to support For Seasons. Due to their partnerships, they can purchase food at heavily discounted rates, meaning your dollar goes further than going to the grocery store yourself. Instead of bringing a single bag of groceries, your donation could provide entire meals for multiple families. Food is purchased, distributed and restocked weekly, and a financial contribution is the way that makes the most consistent impact to the individuals in line each week.
2. Host a Food Drive: Whether you’re part of a business, school, or local organization, you can help by organizing a food drive. A collective effort from your community could help ensure the pantry is stocked and ready with enough food for all families in line.
Visit forseasonsministries.org to make a difference today. No matter the size, collectively your efforts matter.
SEPTEMBER: THE STYLE ISSUE
THANKS TO OUR EVENT SPONSORS
GREYGHOST Cigars & Coffee
Local Legacies
CELEBRATING NONPROFIT LEADERS MAKING A DIFFERENCE
ARTICLE
BY
MAGAZINE STAFF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGELA ROBBINS, SHOT OF MOXIE
Each year, in our Thankful issue, we pause to celebrate the dedicated nonprofit leaders who work tirelessly to uplift our community. These visionaries are behind the impactful programs that touch countless lives, and their efforts embody the spirit of giving back.
Lui Damiani
Lui Damiani is the Executive Director of the Victim Service Center of Central Florida, the region’s certified rape crisis center. Lui attended UCF and earned a Master’s degree in Public Administration in 1994. He served as Chief Aide to former District 3 Commissioner Mary I. Johnson, and was recognized with the county’s highest service honor, The Chairman’s Award. In 2010, Lui served the community as Orange County Commissioner. Throughout his career, Lui has served in various roles leading with passion and honesty, developing a solid reputation of integrity among his peers. Today, under his leadership as Executive Director of the Victim Service Center the organization serves Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties, providing crucial services such as crisis intervention, therapy, and advocacy for victims of sexual assault, violent crime, and trauma. Damiani has championed initiatives like Denim Day, which raises awareness about sexual violence.
Jamie Merrill
Jamie Merrill is the President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, steering one of the largest Boys & Girls Clubs organizations in the nation. Under her leadership, more than 12,000 youth are served annually across five counties. The organization provides a safe and nurturing environment for children from underserved neighborhoods, providing extracurricular enrichment, academic support, and positive role models during non-school hours throughout the year, aiming to close the “opportunity gap”. Prior to assuming the role, Merrill spent over 17 years in executive leadership positions within senior living and healthcare industries.
Merrill serves on several local and national boards and was awarded the 2022 McKnight’s Woman of Distinction as well as Florida’s 2024 Top 50 Women.
John Rivers
John Rivers, founder of the 4R Foundation and the 4Roots Farm Project, is transforming the way Central Florida approaches food and agriculture. After a successful career in healthcare, Rivers turned his passion for barbecue into a community mission. He’s most known for his entrepreneurial success as a restaurateur, the founder of 4 Rivers Smokehouse. After building a barbecue empire, Rivers turned his attention to addressing food insecurity and promoting sustainable agriculture while educating the next generation about the importance of healthy food systems. The 40-acre campus is in development with plans for Phase 2 to be operational late 2026. The nonprofit aims to create lasting impact with sustainable food systems while also supporting local farmers. Rivers’ philanthropic work is rooted in his belief that real change starts with community action, making him a visionary in both entrepreneurship and social impact.
Karen Revels
Karen Revels is the President and CEO of Junior Achievement of Central Florida, where immersive learning experiences for elementary, middle and high school students are transforming the way they learn and prepare for the future. Karen has built upon her 25 years of nonprofit work in Central Florida and JA’s 100-year history to drive relationships with the area’s school districts and partnerships with key organizations like AdventHealth, Staples, and JP Morgan Chase. This collaborative model bridges what students are learning in the classroom with the real world and last year alone inspired and empowered nearly 55,000 local students. Karen’s dedication to work readiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy are continuing to widen the landscape of what’s possible for Central Florida’s youth.
Lane Technologies Solutions
ARTICLE BY
For Winter Park businesses, Lane Technology Solutions represents more than just IT support—they provide peace of mind while staying focused on what matters most: running their business. As a leading Managed Service Provider (MSP) and a direct partner with Microsoft, Lane Technology manages over 42,000 users, catering to businesses that seek efficient, long-term technology solutions. They specialize in providing businesses with IT services, addressing clients’ hardware and software needs while emphasizing trust and seamless operation.
This isn’t just another IT company offering a one-size-fits-all approach. The veteran-owned tech company is about relationships, continuity, and making IT headaches disappear. With a service-first approach, they believe that if a client constantly needs support from their IT provider, something has gone wrong. According to Jim Lane, the company’s founder, “If our customers are consistently calling us, we’re doing something wrong. The real win is when a customer’s tech stack is secure and up and running, with us quietly working proactively in the background.”
ANGELA ROBBINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHOT OF MOXIE
This ethos has driven their steady 45% year-over-year growth, proving they know how to restore trust in IT services. Building trust can be challenging, especially given the state in which many clients come to them. Jim explains, “A lot of companies approach us after losing faith in their IT provider. Often, their experiences with small firms have left them frustrated and the anxiety of changing providers is real. Companies dread the change, and they tend to stick with subpar solutions longer than they should.”
WHY MANAGED SERVICES IS THE SMART CHOICE
For companies that have become frustrated with independent contractors or in-house IT managers, it’s often because they lack the knowledge or experience to evolve with the organization’s growing needs. Having access to a team of experts is of greater value than hiring just one person, and with Lane, you’re not just getting someone who can fix problems—you’re getting an entire team of experts working behind the scenes to improve processes, increasing security and ensuring you never have problems in the first place. This approach is especially appealing to small and medium-sized businesses that might not have the budget or need for a full-time IT department but still require top-tier technology services to remain competitive. Lane Technology becomes an extension of their team, providing ongoing maintenance, updates, and support. Their focus is on using technology and hardware to make businesses more productive, protected, and profitable. Their offerings include providing hardware, managed IT infrastructure, cloud services, cybersecurity, and business continuity solutions, all tailored to meet the specific needs of local enterprises.
A COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY
The company’s commitment to helping local businesses thrive goes hand in hand with Jim Lane’s desire to give back to the community that shaped him. A Winter Park native, Jim has deep ties to the community. His father, Jack Lane, was a beloved history professor at Rollins College for 50 years, and his mother dedicated over 30 years to Orange County Public Schools as a teacher and counselor. Jim left Winter Park as a young adult. Seeking new adventures he joined the U.S. Air Force. After serving his country and living away from the area for several decades, he returned to his hometown to be close to his aging parents. Together with his wife, Kate Lane, he began a new chapter and his life took an unexpected turn.
At age 53, Jim used the GI Bill and enrolled in tech school at Orange Technical College in downtown Winter Park to hone new skills in the industry that fascinated him. But breaking into tech wasn’t easy. “I finished school and I was 55, and no one wanted to hire an older guy in tech,” he recalls.
Despite the challenges, Jim persisted. He eventually became the COO of a technology company and, before long, acquired that company with his wife, rebranding it as Lane Technology Solutions. Today, the company’s success story mirrors Jim’s resilience, grit, and love for Winter Park. “We live and breathe Winter Park,” he says, with pride.
HARNESSING LOYAL TALENT
Developing a strong culture and hiring and maintaining top talent is something the Lane’s feel is crucial to their success and sustainability as a company. By partnering with local colleges and investing in the education of young IT professionals, the Lane’s hire students as early as age 19 and keep them with the company into their adult lives, turning them into key staff members and future managers. They can build a resume while working towards their degrees and certifications and some of them stay within the company after they graduate. CONTINUED >
Jim reflected, “It’s been the absolute joy of my life to watch these young people begin work with us while they are still in college, and then years later they mature and establish a life. I watch them get married, buy their first home, get the news they’re expecting their first child. Later this month we’re hosting a baby shower for one of our long time employees. It’s really been a blessing the way our company is an extension of our family.”
Kate Lane explained the company pays 100% health benefits with vision and dental and offers paid vacation time, sick time, bereavement, maternity and paternity leave. “This is the way
I would want to be treated by a company I worked for, so this is what I want to do for them,” Kate said.
With its steady growth and a strong foundation built on trust, expertise, and community, Lane Technology Solutions is poised for even greater success. But no matter how big they grow, Jim and Kate Lane and their team remain rooted in values—putting relationships first and anticipating their clients pain points and evolving needs.
For businesses seeking a reliable, long-term technology partner, Lane Technology Solutions is the go-to choice in Winter Park. For more information visit lanetechnologysolutions.com
Jim and Kate Lane with their dog, Nana
ARTICLE BY JESSICA KRAMMER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGELA ROBBINS
Wellness Pretty Moods
A
MEDSPA THAT UNDERSTANDS AGING IS A COMPLEX JOURNEY THAT AFFECTS US BOTH INSIDE AND OUT
At Pretty Moods Wellness, self-care goes beyond the surface. As a premier wellness retreat offering non-surgical aesthetic services, Pretty Moods Wellness tailors every treatment to meet the unique needs of each client. With a commitment to enhancing natural beauty and empowering individuals to feel confident in their own skin, this sanctuary of well-being offers a personalized approach that celebrates the power of looking and feeling your best.
We spoke with Dr. Caryne Moodie, DNP, FNP-C, and discovered why her medspa sets the bar, and why it is so much more than typical aesthetics.
“I aimed to create an inclusive medspa that celebrates unique features and offers tailored treatments for all women.”
What inspired you to open this med spa? What gap were you hoping to fill?
As a family nurse practitioner in Women’s Health, I found fulfillment in guiding women through health challenges. Seeking a more holistic approach, I ventured into aesthetics to nurture women’s beauty inside and out. Noticing a lack of diversity in the industry, I aimed to create an inclusive medspa that celebrates unique features and offers tailored treatments for all women.
What are the primary services you offer? Why are they unique?
From advanced neurotoxin treatments for fine lines such as Botox to dermal fillers that restore youthful volume, we offer cutting-edge aesthetic solutions tailored to diverse skin tones and textures. Additionally, we recognize that true vitality comes from within, which is why we’ve integrated services like medical weight loss, vitamin injections, IV hydration and more. These treatments work synergistically to naturally enhance your beauty, boost your metabolism, increase energy levels, and promote overall health – all essential components of the aging process. We approach our services on an individualized level that requires consultations, conversations and science-based recommendations.
Are there any new treatments or services you’re excited to offer in the future?
This fall at Pretty Moods Wellness, we’re expanding our offerings with new services designed to enhance your beauty and wellness journey. Get ready for biostimulators like Sculptra and Radiesse, which boost collagen and elastin production for youthful skin. We’re also introducing professional-grade skincare to prolong your results. Plus, look out for new women’s wellness services that address many unique factors that occur with aging. The future of aesthetics is all about biologics and biostimulators that help your body shine at its best - we want to be at the forefront of that.
Learn more at prettymoodswellness.com
CENTRAL FLORIDA’S TOP FLOORING PROVIDER FOR OVER 30 YEARS.
Join These Nonprofits Making a Difference in the Community of Winter Park
Right in Your Own
ARTICLE BY JESSICA KRAMMER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Paving the Way Foundation
Paving the Way Foundation is a 501c3, empowering individuals, schools and communities in the fierce disruption of child exploitation. With three primary principles of Educate, Empower and Prevent, they pave the way to freedom for children, their families and our community. With programs like Tech Talk online safety training, a Tool Kit for parents teaching how to talk to your kids about keeping them safe online, these are crucial prevention programs in our community. Visit pavingthewayfoundation.org to learn more.
Harbor House of Central Florida
Harbor House works to prevent and eliminate domestic abuse in Central Florida by providing critical life-saving services to survivors, implementing and advancing best practices, and educating and engaging the community in a united front.
Harbor House houses an average of 147 women and children each night who are fleeing from domestic abuse, but only 51 bunks are available. Support their growth project to provide a safe place for women leaving life-threatening experiences. Visit harborhousefl.com to learn more.
A Gift For Teaching
A Gift for Teaching (AGFT) is Central Florida’s primary provider of free school supplies to teachers for their students who need them most. Serving high-need public schools in Orange and Osceola counties, AGFT envisions a future where every student has the tools and experiences to succeed.
Since 1998, AGFT has distributed $175 million worth of classroom resources that empower teachers to inspire future leaders – including pencils, books, backpacks, and hygiene items. Visit agiftforteaching.org to learn more.
Modern Widows Club
Almost 70% of women are under the age of 60 when they enter widowhood. Many widows face challenges years after the loss of their partner, and Modern Widows Club helps widows lean into life, build resilience and make a positive difference in society.
As widows helping widows, they offer in-person and virtual support groups, clubs and activities, travel opportunities, educational courses, mentoring programs, conferences, videos, podcasts, opportunities for advocacy and philanthropy, and more. All ages, ethnic backgrounds, beliefs, faiths, partner statuses, gender identities, and loss circumstances are welcome. Visit modernwidowsclub.org to learn more.
Soldiers’ Angels
The Soldiers’ Angels Holiday Adopt-A-Family program helps businesses, organizations, and individuals support qualified Military and Veteran families that could use some help providing a holiday celebration for their families. Eligible families will receive (at minimum) one gift for each child and a grocery gift card to put towards a holiday meal. Although this program is nationwide, you can locate families directly in our community who have registered hoping for support. Visit soldiersangels.org/holiday-adopt-a-family/ to learn more.
Women On the Rise
Empowering women through four primary pillars of financial literacy, career development, entrepreneurship and personal wellness, their events regularly feature speakers discussing real issues affecting women in the community. Additionally, the organization provides mentorship to high school and college aged women in areas like self-esteem and professional development.
“Women on the Rise International, Inc. (WOTR), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization was formed with the purpose of providing educational and motivational events for women.” Visit wotrinc.org to learn more.
Cranberry Sauce
ARTICLE BY JESSICA KRAMMER
The Cranberry Sauce Everyone Will Want to Try!
As Thanksgiving approaches, the search for perfect side dishes begins, and nothing quite complements the holiday feast like a vibrant cranberry sauce. This year, we’re excited to share a homemade cranberry sauce recipe that will truly impress your guests—no more canned varieties here! Bursting with fresh flavors and easy to make, this delightful sauce will add a delicious, tangy twist to your turkey and stuffing. Say goodbye to bland, gelatinous options and hello to a cranberry sauce that everyone will love and rave about. We hope to provide a memorable addition to your Thanksgiving table that will have everyone asking for seconds!
ingredients:
• 1/2 Cup Honey
• 1/2 Cup Brown Sugar
• 1/2 Cup Orange Juice
• 1/2 Cup Water
• 1/4 tsp Ground Cinnamon
• 1 (12 ounce) package
Fresh Cranberries
directions:
Step 1. Place all sugars, water and juice into a heavy saucepan and stir. Add in cinnamon and stir until all are dissolved in the liquid. Step 2. Add the cranberries and bring the mixture to a boil. Cook over medium heat until the berries pop, about 10 minutes. Check regularly to make sure the honey does not scorch the bottom of your pan. Step 3. Make sure all berries are popped and use a spoon to mash and thicken the sauce. If runny, low simmer a few more minutes until sauce thickens.
Step 4. Remove from heat and pour into a bowl. Keep cool until serving time. Sauce will thicken as it cools.
