Baldwin Park Living March 2021 by Orange Observer

BALDWIN PARK

LIVING MARCH 2021

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | MARCH 2021

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Kimberley R. Gernert

YO!"U!” helpYOU o help re tto hehere "I'm “I’m AVAILABLE

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”I had the good fortune of meeting Kimberley while walking 2,276 sq ft. my dog in my neighborhood of Baldwin Park. She was put3 Bedrooms • 2 Bath ting flyers on doors in search of homes to list and I was very Plac ing impressed with Meet her work ethic. SinceeI was preparing to 2633 e Plac ing Meet 1878 win Lane Bald 625 Lake Top list my home, I decided to stop her and ask some questions. Realtor in Baldwin Park since 2019 Keller Williams Winter Park Luxury 4.2 baths 4 bed Division Member I discovered that Kimberley is a delightful, hard-working m 2.5 bath 3 bedroo Orlando 100 Realtors since 2019 bath m 2HOT 3 bedroo Pool professional and personwater Salt young woman who is completely Room Bonus Gold Key Certified Park Resident for over 15 years ard n Courty Kitche LovelyBaldwin or Outdo Full able. This was the first time I had listed a home on my own Pool ard withRealtor Courty Great Orlando 5 Star Professional Garage 2 Car SideYaofrds Ranked in Top Producer Magazine 2 Large and I was woefully ignorant the residential real estate by Orlando Style Magazine since 2015 world. Kimberley guided me every step of the way. She 3 years running (2017-2019) sold my home in just over a week and assisted me through I thenpatience. earted,and and kind-h savvy e, experienced, professional, the entire process with aptitude She even "If you are looking for a Realtor who is knowledgeablGerner to t marke the te naviga ically strateg us helped t. She worked on the closing of my sale while on vacation in Eustrongly and unequivocally recommend Kimberley of step every wit alleviated stress CAL L good-natured rope (which I believe ly is above and beyond the call of duty)! find a home for our lifestyle. Her professionalism, enthusiasm and smooth sailing . It was certain t home within the month and sold our curren Kimberley R. around Gernert ME she turned Kimberley isabout a credit to Keller Williams and I will not hesthe way. Then, clients and their ely cares someone who genuin with FOR A PRIVATE knowing we were in such good hands itate to recommend her to others. She is, without a doubt, and so nice SHOWIN (423) 381 - 5701 G s." familie an outstanding real estate agent and friend.” in Park, FL Baldw / Park r Winte of KMP - Colleene B. KimberleyRG@kw.com

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CONTENTS

MARCH 2021

MARKET TO TABLE

HOME-GROWN FOOD Everoak Farm, located right in our backyard, grows and sells farm-fresh produce.

DEPARTMENTS 8 BALDWIN PARK NOTEBOOK Read about recent decisions made by community leaders. 14 WHAT A GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD WE LIVE IN Will Campbell encourages residents to be Baldwin Park Strong. 16 FROM THE COVER Resident Laura Arderius loves crafting beautiful floral wreaths.

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | MARCH 2021

18 AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD Even in a socially distanced world, food brings neighbors together. 20 GROUPS & GATHERINGS Looking to connect? Find your perfect group here. 26 KEEPING IT REAL ESTATE Orlando’s housing market remains strong despite the pandemic. 28 WHAT’S SELLING See two homes that sold recently in Baldwin Park.

BALDWIN PARK

LIVING MARCH 2021

Editor and Publisher — Michael Eng meng@orangeobserver.com

Inventory in Baldwin Park is at an all-time low.

EDITORIAL Design Editor — Jessica Eng jeng@orangeobserver.com Associate Editor — Danielle Hendrix dhendrix@orangeobserver.com Contributors Will Campbell Denny O’Neil Christina Rordam Becca Schmidt

ADVERTISING Advertising Executive — Ann Carpenter acarpenter@orangeobserver.com

Creative Services Lindsay Cannizzaro

CONTACT To submit story ideas, calendar listings or have your event considered for coverage, contact Danielle Hendrix at dhendrix@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.

Thinking of selling your home? The moment is now.

Janice Cox JANICE COX c 505.920.4774 Janice.Cox@PremierSIR.com JaniceCox.PremierSothebysRealty.com

233 West Park Avenue, Winter Park, FL 32789 Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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PRODUCTION

Baldwin Park notebook HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR OWNERS This is a great time for pressure washing your home, fencing, driveways and walkways. It is also a great time to take a look at your trees for signs of mistletoe. Most of the oaks and elms have dropped their leaves; therefore, it makes the invader more visible. This airborne disease has no cure. It should be cut out each year to deter spreading to other healthy trees.

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 Jan. 26, 2021, meeting minutes can be obtained on the Community Network at BaldwinParkNetwork.com once approved.

BOARD APPROVALS

n The board approved a 5% increase for the pool-maintenance contract remaining with the same contractor. n The board approved keeping the lifestyle director contract vacant but to contract someone to manage and engage residents through social-media platforms for the next six months for no more than $2,500. n The board approved the 2022 Reserve Study Update.

n The association offices and Grace Hopper gathering room remain closed.

n The board approved sponsoring the North Orlando Kiwanis Little League.

n Open Enders gathering room for reservations/classes/clubs with the following criteria: No more than 10 people permitted when table and chairs are in use, and no more than 20 people permitted if not using tables and chairs; reduce time slots 30 minutes on the front end of the time slot and 30 minutes on the back end of time slot for a total of one-hour reduction to allow for detailed cleaning by staff; must sign online waiver agreeing to social distancing and the mandatory wearing of masks before the reservation will be confirmed.

n The board approved replacing lifted sidewalk panels at Fox Mews and Enders Park.

n Open High Park pavilions for reservations/classes/clubs with the following criteria: Must sign online waiver agreeing to social distancing and the mandatory wearing of masks before the reservation will be confirmed. Time slots are the same as before closing amenities. n The board approved having Becker Law mail a joint letter with the Joint Committee with firmer language to Consult Boom and to include in the letter that the ROA board is open to discussion for reasonable accommodations, including possible payment plans and other negotiations.

n The board approved landscape replacements at various parks/ mews. n The board approved root pruning and sod replacements in the Spring at Corrine Commons, The Yard and Upper Union Park.

UPDATES

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | MARCH 2021

n Enforcement handbook: The enforcement handbook was provided to the committee for review. This handbook incorporates a few new letters for consideration, along with cure periods per violation, and changes to F.S. 720 with relation to when fines are placed on the account (five calendar days after hearing). COVID-19 ITEMS ON HOLD n Proposals for landscape and tree replacements: Oak Mews plants; Enders plants/sod and ligustrums in pool area; Enders plants on backside of pool near pool equipment; Grace Hopper plants and sod; Union Park shade-tolerant plants to replace sod; Union Park plant fill-ins; Fox Corner shade-tolerant plants to replace sod; Parkland Quadrangle shade-tolerant plants to replace four corners sod.

n Enders Pool resurfacing: The pool-resurfacing project started Jan. 18 and was anticipated to be completed by the end of February.

n Proposals for High Park facility center (gutter cleaning, painting light poles, painting pool fencing and caulking/weatherproofing)

n Landscape/sod replacements: The pavers were removed in the CH No. 2 and CH No. 3 Mews, and roots were pruned.

n Proposals for bollard light painting in CH No. 2 and CH No. 4 Mews

n Canopy analysis: Mary Edwards, the consulting arborist, completed the review/inventory of the ROA canopy trees and understory tree located in the parks/mews and townhome service areas. n City Home No. 2 and No. 3 Mews trellis: The board approved work to clean, repair and repaint the trellis has been completed. n Community Network/website: Joint Committee representatives

continue to work with Elliptq on updating the current community website. Elliptq is doing the redesign at no charge to the Joint Committee. Once the design is completed, an update will be provided. Completion of the new design is anticipated during March.

n Proposals for cleaning, repairing, caulking and painting Union Park pergola n Proposal for air purifiers and UV bulbs for Grace Hopper HVAC systems n Proposal for Enders gathering room HVAC systems n Proposal for crepe myrtle V-Shaping in select parks/mews n Sign panels (dog waste/park rules) for parks/mews spaces

HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR TOWNHOUSE OWNERS

BY MELISSA PARKER MParker@BalwinParkPOA.com The following information is a glimpse of the business that the Townhome Service Area Committee addressed in the Jan. 21, 2021, meeting. A complete copy of the official minutes can be obtained on the Community Network at BaldwinParkNetwork.com once approved. n Omar Lopez, BrightView account manager, was formally introduced to the committee. Omar Lopez took over the handling and reviewing of the service areas for landscaping when Stephen Rossbach was promoted by BrightView. n United Fire conducted the annual fire-sprinkler inspections on Saturday, Feb. 27, and Sunday, Feb. 28. COVID-19 precautions were implied. A mailing is was sent out to townhome owners advising of the upcoming inspections via USPS.

UPDATES n Please remember to report any landscape, building or irrigation issues on the Baldwin Park Services App. Reporting items on the Baldwin Park Services App will allow residents to share photos of the reported area(s) and receive real-time updates from management staff on corrective measures being taken. n New sod installed in December was treated with a fungicide by BrightView.

Notebook continued on page 12

It’s a new year, and the weather has been so nice out. Many residents are either making improvements to their homes or possibly planning to change something in the near future. Below is information regarding how you can plan to make any changes to the exterior of your townhome or courtyard/private zone area: n If you want to make any exterior changes to doors, windows, hardware, courtyard/private zone, etc., you will need to obtain approval from the Architectural Review Committee. The applications are available on the Baldwin Park Network at BaldwinParkNetwork. com. If you are repairing or replacing a door, window, plant species etc., with the same exact one, there is no need for ARC approval — only if you want to replace with something different (such as different hardware, a different mutton pattern, more efficient window glass or different door or different type of plants/ layout pattern). n If you are looking for existing plans (blueprints) for your townhome, you can obtain a copy by visiting the city of Orlando’s website and requesting a copy at bit.ly/3jKhfDZ. The Association office does not keep copies within the office. The city of Orlando will have a copy in long-term storage if something is available for your property.

BALDWIN PARK COMMERCIAL OWNERS ASSOCIATION INC. BY BILL PATTERSON

VILLAGE CENTER UPDATES n Orlando’s bike share/scooter share pilot program has eclipsed a year in Baldwin Park. We want to reiterate some safety measures specific to our community. Many shoppers have noticed bikes/ scooters are being left in high-traffic areas and in the middle of sidewalks around the Village Center. The website for the program has an online form where you can report improperly parked bikes/ scooters. We are also working with the city and the contractors to reduce this issue and the improve the program in our community. For more information about the program, including frequently asked questions, visit bit.ly/2NjREW8. n The Village Center painting project is ongoing. The buildings along New Broad Street from Meeting Place down to Jake Street will get a fresh coat of paint over the next few months. n The Village Center Parking lots will be getting a sealcoat and restripe in the first quarter of 2021. This will be done in phases to minimize parking lot closures. We will give plenty of notice when each lot will be closed for work so everyone can make arrangements.

NEIGHBORHOOD BUSINESS DISTRICT UPDATES Monthly streetlight repairs and landscaping replacement/ upgrades are planned for the Neighborhood Business District parking lots. GENERAL UPDATES n Parking lot light checks and replacements occur monthly in both the Village Center and the Neighborhood Business District. If you notice a light out, please report it using the Baldwin Park Services app. You can also report the cityowned light outages using this app, as well. n The COA Service Area Manager walks the property looking for covenant compliance each month. To avoid violations and fines, please maintain your building and property so it is looking Baldwin Best. If you have any questions, contact Bill at bpatterson@baldwinparkpoa.com. n Architectural Review Committee meetings take place twice a month on the second and fourth Tuesday for application reviews regarding commercial changes to exterior structures (roofing replacements and painting), landscaping and signage. 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, send an email Bill.

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Baldwin Park notebook

Insuring your life helps protect their future.

Continued from page 9 n BrightView treated duranta on Prospect, Chatfield, Anson and Virginia for mites. They also were fertilized. n BrightView continued the annual merit application on azaleas throughout the service areas.

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n The azaleas located on Lake Baldwin Lane were treated and fertilized. n Per DRS Inc., below is the townhome painting schedule for 2021: Live/Work, Issa 22, Cambridge, City Homes No. 2.

Please report any building or landscaping issues on the Baldwin Park Services App to receive a response with updates.

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n Per DRS Inc., the townhome maintenance schedule for 2021 is as follows: City Homes No. 2 (April); Mattamy (May); City Homes No. 4 (June); Issa 28 (July); Live/ Work (September); Issa 22 (October); and Cambridge (November).

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WHAT A GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD WE LIVE IN!

We are Baldwin Park strong H

with friends and family and make new friends, whether through work or virtual groups and gatherings. We gained a new — and, in some cases, overdue — respect for our essential workers, from those in health care to those in grocery stores and everything in-between. Personally, we learned to do whatever we needed to do to take the best care of ourselves in times when we never knew what was going to happen next. In the words of some famous lady, “If you can’t love yourself, how the hell you gonna love somebody else?!” We did whatever we could to support each other. When our neighbors and friends who lost their jobs turned hobbies into businesses, we supported them however we could. Our own businesses in downtown Baldwin Park pivoted to continue serving their customers in new and different ways. Those who were able went out of their way to shop small and support local. Personally, Andrew and I made a point to get takeout at least once a week from the local restaurants (usually more because, well, he was exhausted from work as a Publix store manager, and I didn’t want to cook). We all have a vested interest in what happens around here, and it 347217-1

WILL CAMPBELL PRESIDENT BALWIN PARK JOINT COMMITTEE

ey, neighbors! How’s everyone doing out there? It’s hard to believe it was only a year ago that I was first introducing myself on this page to the neighborhood that I love so much. When I wrote the article in February, I was getting ready for a trip to celebrate mine and my husband Andrew’s 40th birthdays with our closest friends. Little did we know that, as we were flying home on March 9, so much was about to change in so many different ways for everyone, even in our little Baldwin bubble. I’m not trying to make anyone relive any painful memories here; we’ve all had enough of that. Although nothing is really “back to normal” and may never be back to pre-pandemic times, it’s important to look at what we’ve accomplished in the past year. Some of us learned to work from home. Many of us learned a new appreciation for K-12 teachers. We learned what social distancing was, that hand sanitizer is critical, and that face masks could be protective and be fashion statements. We learned patience for everyday aspects of life and gratitude for the parts of normalcy that remained. We found new ways to connect

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truly showed over the past year. We are one of few areas that did not have businesses permanently close because of COVID, and that says something about us as a community. Some of our local businesses even managed to do the same or above what they did during the same time period in a “normal” year because of that support. “People in Baldwin Park, more than other areas, understand their individual role in the success and survival of the community,” Kristen Painter, of Lafayette & Rushford, says. “And it goes both ways: We (as businesses) were motivated to be creative and work hard to pivot because the community responded.” The start of 2021 brought us lots of changes and hope in the form of multiple potential vaccines. As we continue to move through the new year and see how all of these changes will impact our lives long-term, let’s take what we learned and carry it forward. Let’s continue to build up our neighbors, our neighborhood businesses and ourselves. Together, we have and will continue to show The City Beautiful what Baldwin Park is all about! Until we see each other again, be safe, be well and be kind. #WeAreBaldwinPark

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Laura Arderius began making wreaths when she and her family moved to Baldwin Park.

FLOWER W

DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

POWER Baldwin Park resident Laura Arderius is happiest when she’s creating beautifully unique floral wreaths and arrangements.

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | MARCH 2021

hen Laura Arderius moved to Baldwin Park years ago, one of the first things she noticed was the colorful wreaths her neighbors hung on their doors. It was a pleasant surprise for the Argentina native, who says wreaths are virtually nonexistent there. Arderius especially loved the floral wreaths filled with beautiful, colorful flowers. She purchased her first wreath at JOANN but then had an idea: Why not make her own wreaths? “I always wanted to make them with flowers — not the burlap or fabric or ribbon,” she says. “It’s always been flowers. I started to do some research on where to buy flowers. I like good-quality (flowers). … I started to make a wreath for me for every season, every occasion — for Valentine’s Day, for

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spring, then Easter, Christmas and for every day.” Arderius soon was on a roll creating special wreaths for her home. When she realized she had more than 10 wreaths but didn’t want to stop making them, she gifted one to her neighbor. Although she had never thought about selling her wreaths, Arderius created an Etsy shop — Unique and For You — in 2017 at her mother’s suggestion. Since then, Arderius has created, sold and shipped wreaths both locally and even to other countries. However, to this day, she doesn’t think about it as a business but rather a form of therapy driven by a passion to create. “I enjoy doing the wreaths,” she says. “It’s a hobby, but I think I am even more happy when someone comments something like, ‘They are gorgeous, I love it!’ Every time I receive feedback, for me, it’s heaven. I am super happy, more so than

“When I create something, I have something in my mind first,” she says. “Once I have the flowers in my mind, then I choose the base. Some flowers, you cannot put them on foam, or you cannot put them on grapevine. … Grapevine is the easy way to make them, but they are not always perfectly round. I don’t like to use grapevine too much because I have to be sure that the wreath is completely, perfectly round. I try to use foam — that is the base I like the most — but I don’t always find the one that I want.” Arderius works mostly with silk flowers, although she occasionally uses “real-touch” latex flowers. The latter are more prevalent in her floral arrangements — another creative passion — because they tend to fade over time if used on a wreath that is exposed to sun and the elements. Her wreaths vary in price depending on factors such as size, base type, time required to make the wreath, and quantity of flowers. The largest wreath she will make is 24 inches. Some wreaths are easi-

er to put together than others, too: One wreath might take two to three hours, while another could take a couple days. The money Arderius makes from selling wreaths goes toward buying supplies for new wreaths and orders. She loves when she has something to work on. “It’s very difficult to buy separate flowers and think, ‘How is this going to (look) in a wreath?’” she says. “I have to cut them and put them together in a different way to have them straight and not all separate. You don’t know how it’s going to (look) until you finish. Sometimes I buy flowers and I start to create, and the wreath is not as I like, so I feel frustrated and I choose something different and start over.” It’s all part of the creative process, though. In the end, she said, it’s fulfilling to see a beautiful wreath or floral arrangement brought to life right before her eyes. “I like to make something different and something unique,” she says. “When I finish something and it looks as I wanted, I am happy.”

UNIQUE AND FOR YOU ETSY: etsy.me/3jFHewe EMAIL: uniqueandforyou@gmail.com DETAILS: Laura Arderius loves making wreaths and sharing her creative passion with others. Currently, she has more than 70 wreaths and floral arrangements for sale on her Etsy page. For Baldwin Park residents interested in purchasing a wreath or floral arrangement, Arderius recommends emailing her to arrange for local pickup or delivery to avoid shipping costs.

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when I sell something. Somebody somewhere loves it, and that is what makes me happy.” Although Arderius takes custom orders, she prefers being given the creative freedom to build a wreath herself. “I don’t make two wreaths exactly the same, because the idea is to do something unique,” she says. “It’s not like JOANN’s where you go and see 20 of the same. I don’t enjoy making them the same all the time — that is like a business, and for me, this is not a business. This is just something that I like.” Most people have their own particular style with things such as clothing and home décor, she says. For her, there is no particular signature style: Every piece she crafts is truly unique. Although she finds joy in the wreath-making process, it can be arduous. She works with various bases, such as grapevine, foam, straw with burlap, and wicker. The base she uses depends on the size of the wreath, the types of flowers and the quantity of flowers.

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AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Neighbors, let’s break bread together! BECCA SCHMIDT BALDWIN PARK RESIDENT Becca Schmidt, Baldwin Park resident since 2005, writes about lifestyle in this beautiful neighborhood.

hen I think of good neighbors, I think of food. I think about all the cooks (of all abilities) here in Baldwin Park who share culinary creations as an expression of neighborly love. Over the 16 years my husband, son and I have lived in Baldwin Park, we’ve been the recipients of countless instances of culinary love. I remember them all — not because of the way the food tasted but because of how the gesture made us feel. I’ve jotted down a few of these sweet memories and hope to inspire you to share neighborly love in the form of food this month. My all-time favorite food memory occurred on a hot summer night almost nine years ago. As the sun sank slowly around 8 p.m., two neighbor brothers (ages 12 and 6 at the time), sun-tanned and sweaty from an afternoon of fishing, rushed to our door to announce that their dad was “making root beer floats for everyone!” We jogged down the street with our (then) 9-year-old son. We eagerly watched the boys’ dad pour cold A&W root beer over a giant scoop of Bluebird vanilla ice cream. He topped it off with a gigantic squirt of Reddi-wip and added a long metal spoon! I’ll never forget that scene in our neighbor’s backyard of three giggling boys and four very happy adults slurping an atrocious amount of calories from mason jars. I winked at the boys’ mom, knowing this would be a summer memory our kids would always cherish. My neighbor across the street is my go-to gal pal for odd ingre-

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | MARCH 2021

dients such as self-rising flour, salt-free butter or cumin. (She knows you can’t make black bean soup without lots of cumin and is happy to oblige any request for a good recipe.) Usually, I borrow the ingredient, and then we yap on the front porch for 20 minutes or so, sharing stories about what our moms used to cook when we were kids. And then there is a funny story about the neighbor five doors down and across the street whom I texted to loan me two eggs. That may sound fairly unremarkable. But considering that she wasn’t even home—but her painters were — she called them to let me in and allow me to rummage through her refrigerator! That was remarkable. I still smile when I see her, remembering how she’d gone the extra mile for me and my cake recipe. My next-door neighbor, a traditional Southern cook, frequently blesses us with her insanely delicious pies, vegetables, gazpacho and gourmet cookies. This past Thanksgiving morning, she donned her mask and brought over sweet potato casserole, green beans with almonds, a Key lime pie and turkey for my husband (who is the only meat eater in my household). Hubby was very happy indeed! The neighborhood kids cook, too. Years ago, the little ones with toothless smiles would bring us hand-decorated sugar cookies, piled high with frosting and blue sprinkles. The kids — also covered in frosting and blue sprinkles — were the best part of the visit. But it hasn’t always been a

receiving thing. Many, many years ago, a new neighbor moved in with her young son. I brought them some chocolate-chip muffins as a housewarming gift. But when she answered the front door, I saw rooms full of unpacked boxes and realized she was utterly exhausted from the move. I thought to myself, “Now, what could she possibly come up with for dinner for that sweet little boy?” I returned to her house 30 minutes later with a big bowl of ravioli, a green salad and Italian bread. It was, indeed, exactly what she needed. This neighbor and I are now close friends, and she occasionally retells that story over a glass of wine, which we share often. There is a poignant scene in the 1946 movie “It’s A Wonderful Life,” where George Bailey presents bread, salt and wine to the Martini family as they receive the keys to their new home.

“Bread, so the family of this house shall never know hunger; salt, so life will always have flavor; and wine, so joy and prosperity may reign forever!” Sharing food is one of the most genuine acts of kindness you can offer. What nourishing gift can you bring your neighbor this month?

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BALDWIN PARK LIVING | MARCH 2021

AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Groups & gatherings Many of the Baldwin Park groups have postponed meetings due to the COVID-19 precautions. However, some groups are meeting on Zoom, or connecting via email or Facebook. Please take a look at what interests you, and reach out to a group leader to connect make an introduction. Check out the Baldwin Park Groups and Gatherings Facebook page for posts about club events, Zoom meetings and photos from around the neighborhood. BALDWIN PARK ART Baldwin Park’s art club is a mixture of art classes, studio tours and gallery openings for art lovers. It’s open to everyone! Contact Pat at plremingt@gmail. com.

GAMES GALORE! Adults are invited to play a variety of games on various Saturdays. Learn new games such as Settlers of Catan or play the classics. Contact Robyn at rhzgrodin@gmail.com.

BALDWIN PARK KIDS CLUB Activities for children ages infant to 5 years old. Parents and kids enjoy a variety of casual get-togethers, including story time, play dates, park picnics, mom’s night out and more. Contact bpkidsclub1@gmail.com. Many programs for kids are now on Zoom.

NIFTY FIFTIES PLUS Socials for active couples and singles, age 50 and up, meet several times a month for a variety of social activities including ladies coffee, happy hour, luncheons, parties and more. Reach out to niftyfiftiesplus@ gmail.com.

COOKING AROUND THE WORLD Learn the artful craft of cooking ethnic foods with hands-on cooking demonstrations. This group will resume when residents can meet in the kitchen again! ETHNIC FOOD ENTHUSIASTS Explore exceptional epicurean dishes every month. Experience a chef talk or food flights and bites at local restaurants. Singles and residents new to the area are encouraged to jump in and enjoy incredible food and conversation. Contact Shannon at sfaith14@ gmail.com.

NOVEMBER PROJECT Unlike the name, this group meets year-round. Run, squat, plank and laugh while you work out with this all-levels fitness group. Meets at 6:29 a.m. every Wednesday at Harbor Park. Contact Dyani at novemberprojectorlando@gmail.com. TACTICAL BREWING RUNNING CLUB Meets at 6 p.m. Thursdays at Tactical Brewing Company’s tasting room. Then, head out on a run around Lake Baldwin with fellow runners. After the run is complete, enjoy a beer and socializing with others. For more information, visit bit. ly/2H6OX7q.

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | MARCH 2021

FITNESS AND FUN

So many people find friendships at the gym. Most gyms have been slowly reopening, but some Baldwin Park-area fitness and yoga studios are continuing the connection with live Zoom classes, Instagram feeds and Facebook Live. n BLUE MOON YOGA is offering free meditation and yoga classes for anyone who has recently lost employment due to COVID. All yoga classes — including classes for couples, families and small groups — follow social distancing outside in shaded green spaces around Baldwin Park. Certified yoga instructor Becca Schmidt has been teaching for 17 years in Orlando. Reach her at becca@ bluemoon.yoga for locations and times. n CHAMPIONSHIP MARTIAL ARTS — In-person classes are back in action with various safety precautions. Visit championshipmartialarts.com/baldwin-park to learn more. n MIGHTY GIRLS FITNESS — Offers a variety of classes including Go With the Flow Yoga, Pilates, Barre and Burn, Cardio Hip Hop Fit, Core and Cardio, Restorative Yoga, Self Care and Mighty Mobility. Sign up for classes at mightygirlsfitness. com or on the MINDBODY app. n 9ROUND FITNESS — Enjoy a 30-minute total body workout in a kickboxing-themed fitness program. For information, visit facebook.com/9RoundOrlandoJakeSt.

WIN! WOMEN INNOVATORS NETWORK This new group is for Baldwin Park women who own or manage a business — big or small. Come for lunch to exchange ideas and hear guest speakers. Reservations can be made by contacting Bekah at beautifiedbybekah@ gmail.com.

n NOVEMBER PROJECT — This group is offering free weekly workouts. Visit november-project.com for more information. n ROCK HARD FITNESS — Various fitness classes are available, along with personal training and boot camps. Visit rockhardfitnessorlando.com for more information. n ZOOM BALLET AND PILATES — Baldwin Park resident and PMA-certified instructor Adriana Duarte Pontual offers Zoom pilates classes from 11 a.m. to noon Wednesdays and 9:15 to 10:15 a.m. Saturdays, along with ballet barre from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Saturdays. Classes are $10. Those interested in taking these classes can fill out a form at adrianaduartepontual.com. br/virtual-classes. n ROCK HARD FITNESS — Various fitness classes are available, along with personal training and boot camps. Visit rockhardfitnessorlando.com for more information. n ZOOM BALLET AND PILATES — Baldwin Park resident and PMA-certified instructor Adriana Duarte Pontual offers Zoom pilates classes from 11 a.m. to noon Wednesdays and 9:15 to 10:15 a.m. Saturdays, along with ballet barre from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Saturdays. Classes are $10. Those interested in taking these classes can fill out a form at adrianaduartepontual.com.br/virtual-classes.

WRITERS’ BLOCK WRITING GROUP This group will discuss many topics to help writers, such as thinking outside the box, preventing stagnation, practicing new vocabulary words, research and more! Contact Rich at powerofselfentertainment@ gmail.com.

BOOK CLUBS

All clubs listed below welcome new members! Some clubs have suspended their meetings, but others are engaging on Zoom. Determine the type of books you like to discuss, and contact the club leader regarding their upcoming plans. BOOK BUDS This fiction book club welcomes new members. Contact Audean at audean63@gmail. com. HOOKED ON BOOKS This club is welcoming new members who love fiction.

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REAL DEAL NONFICTION BOOK CLUB This group reads and discusses biographies, memoirs, business books and contemporary non-fiction. Contact Kathy at klhgibbons@gmail.com. PAGE TURNERS BOOK CLUB This club meets on the second Monday of each month to discuss a variety of books. New participants are always welcome! Contact Genie at bsrocky@hotmail.com.

Gracious hospitality within comfortable and elegant surroundings at two conveniently located communities. Offering a full range of supportive services. Call today to arrange a visit! ASSISTED LIVING

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What kind of Baldwin Park residents’ group would you like to join? Community service? Golf? Single moms and dads? Empty nesters? Sailing? Cigar club? Optimist club? Speakers round table? Wine tasting? Frisbee football? If you don’t see your interests reflected in the groups listed here, consider spearheading a new group. Email scomisky@baldwinparkpoa.com for more information.

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OBSERVED

Luck of the Irish? Although there won’t be a St. Patrick’s Day festival this year, there are plenty of ways to celebrate Irish culture at home.

DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

n a normal world, Baldwin Parkers would be gearing up for the community’s annual St. Patrick’s Festival. As we’ve all come to realize, though, the world we’ve been living in for a year now is the furthest thing from normal. This time last year, plans were on for a day filled with shamrocks, live music, food trucks and the quintessential Irish drinks (a pint of Guinness, anyone?) along New Broad Street. Then, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Plans to deck out the community in green came to a halt. Little did we know that it would be among the first of a year filled with cancellations and mask mandates. Unfortunately, plans are off for a community-wide St. Patrick’s Day celebration this year, too. But that doesn’t mean you can’t foster the spirit of good luck and celebrate Irish culture right in your own home. Until we can all come together again to safely celebrate these fun holidays and special occasions, here are five fun ways to ensure Irish eyes are smiling on St. Paddy’s Day this year.

EAT YOUR GREENS

Do I mean vegetables? Not exactly — although more power to you if you want to make an Irish pub salad or green protein shake!

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | MARCH 2021

Let’s get creative and break out that green food coloring, because what’s more fun than coloring your food? This is especially fun if you have children at home. Start off the day with none other than green pancakes! Just add a few drops of green food coloring to your batter, and you’re good to go. Or, if you’re more of a cereal family, go ahead and grab that family-sized box of Lucky Charms on your next grocery run. Cliché? Maybe. Magically delicious? Definitely. It’s also the perfect occasion for sweet treats like cookies and cupcakes. Grab some shamrock-shaped cookie cutters on Amazon and use them to whip up a batch of lucky sugar cookies with green sprinkles. If you’re making cupcakes at home, use green icing or even color your cupcake batter with green food coloring. The possibilities here are endless.

BREAK OUT THE CRAFT BOX

Bring a little bit of Irish spirit into your home with some DIY crafts and decorations. Next time you head out to JOANN or Michael’s craft stores, grab some supplies to create fun, family-friendly St. Paddy’s Day décor: green construction paper or felt, string for a banner, glitter, paint, whatever calls to you.

TRY YOUR LUCK AT IRISH TRIVIA Grab the family and gather in the living room for a fun competition of St. Patrick’s Day trivia. With a quick Google search, you can find tons of question cards to print out and use. Here are a few to get you started (answers to your right): 1. What are the three colors of the Irish flag, and what do they represent? 2. What is the “profession” of a leprechaun? 3. By legend, when a person kisses the Blarney Stone, they receive what? 4. The Celtic New Year begins on what day? 5. What is a Claddagh? 6. In Irish surnames, what does “Mac” mean? 7. What two days a year do pubs close in Ireland?

Trace some four-leaf clovers or shamrocks on the green construction paper or felt, punch a hole at the top, and string them to create banners for the stairwell, dining room or hallways. You can even stick some in the windows to spread some Irish cheer. Let the kids paint some rainbows on paper or canvas and display them proudly throughout the home — don’t forget to add a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow!

CURATE THAT PLAYLIST

If you’re going to be around the house anyway, you’ll need some great Irish music to help get you into the spirit of St. Paddy’s Day. Try listening to some Irish bands such as U2, The Cranberries, The Pogues or the Dubliners. Traditional Irish music and Celtic music are great options, too. If you need some help creating your playlist, your music-streaming platform of choice — such as Spotify, Apple Music or Pandora — likely already has a great se-

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Irish wedding ring 6. Son of 7. Christmas and Good Friday

maker 3. The gift of gab, or the loss of shyness and the ability to talk to anyone 4. Nov. 1 5. Traditional

You don’t have to go out to a bar this year to enjoy some boozy beverages in the spirit of St. Patrick. If you’re looking for something sweet, try a shamrock shake. Mix vanilla ice cream, milk, a splash of vanilla vodka and green food coloring; for the kids, trade the vodka for some green sprinkles or M&M candies. Green beer is also very simple to make at home. All you need is 12 ounces of beer and a drop of green food coloring. Add the food coloring to a clear glass, then pour the beer on top of it. This works best with lighter-colored brews.

ANSWERS

BYOB

1. Orange for Protestants, green for Catholics and white for living together in peace 2. Cobbler or shoe-

lection of Irish-music playlists for you to choose from. I’m a Spotify user myself, so here is one of my favorite St. Paddy’s Day playlists for you to check out: spoti.fi/2MRo5vB.

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FARM FRESH Nikki and Mike Garcia own and operate Everoak Farm, which spans 3-and-one-half acres and serves clients in Baldwin Park and beyond.

A hidden gem right in your backyard, Everoak Farm serves various Baldwin Park clients, restaurants and beyond with fresh, organically grown produce. DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

magine getting a box of fresh, locally sourced produce — grown right in Baldwin Park’s backyard — delivered right to your door. Mike and Nikki Garcia, of Everoak Farm, do exactly that through their market-gardening program. They also run a farm stand each Sunday and are transitioning part of the farm to community-supported agriculture. Although the farm is located just outside Baldwin Park, the Garcias have various regular clients in the

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neighborhood — including The Osprey in the Village Center — and they hope to serve even more residents as they expand their offerings. “When we first moved to Orlando, we were thinking about moving to Baldwin Park, and then it just didn’t work out, (but) we’ve always had a soft spot for Baldwin,” Nikki Garcia says. “It’s the neighborhood that’s right there, and it just makes sense,” Mike Garcia says. “It seems like there’s a wide demographic of people that we want to serve there that probably do want some locally, organically grown food but aren’t even aware that there’s a place right next to them that is actually doing it.” The Garcias have been growing their own food since 2012, when they first ventured into backyard gardening in an effort to be more sustainable and not so dependent on a system for food. Then, in 2015, Mike Garcia wanted to begin farming full-time. “We didn’t know how it was go-

Danielle Hendrix

ing to happen or how it was going to work,” Nikki Garcia says. “We started growing in Lake County with our friend, Jordan, and that went really well. We did that for about a year, and then we had another farm called New Growth Urban Farm — which was out of College Park — for three years. We were farming with our best friends, and then we decided to do Everoak after that, extending to bees and a larger space.” For Mike Garcia, who loves cooking and was in the Orlando culinary scene for a decade, cultivating their own food was a no-brainer. “It goes back to just being sustainable, providing for yourself … and then it’s like, ‘Oh, this is fun,’ and you keep going,” he says. “Then I thought, ‘Actually, this would be nice to do as a living.’ We’ve been doing it full time for a year now, and we’re just making it happen.” Everoak Farm is located at 2335 Carrington Drive, Orlando, in a neighborhood with agricultural zoning. Across the street is A Patch of

Blue, a community blueberry farm that the Garcias regularly host their farm stand with. The Garcias farm on 3-and-onehalf acres. Half an acre is dedicated to a biodiverse market garden, which contains various vegetables to bring directly to market or clients. Another half-acre is a peach orchard. There’s also an apiary, or a bee yard, from which the Garcias harvest honey and beeswax. Now, they’re starting to raise hens for egg production. For the spring season, they are growing more than a dozen different crops. That includes broccoli, lettuce, baby greens, cilantro, dill, turnips, peppers, eggplants, cabbage, kale, collards, tomatoes, zucchini, radishes and cucumbers. They also grow starts, or seedlings that help people get a head start with their own backyard gardens. “We always plant extra, and then the extra that we’re planting, we either have to have a home for it, we have to intercrop it with something else, or we could package it to sell to

people to help them along with their garden,” Nikki Garcia says. “(It’s) nice, because then instead of going to Home Depot or something, you could buy your starts from a farm. And it’s not sprayed with anything chemical or anything like that. Everything we do is all biological or botanical.” Aside from market gardening, Everoak Farm also sells produce and items like honey, beeswax lip balm and soap through its farm stand. Now, another component of the farm — formerly known as a farm share box — is transitioning over to community-supported agriculture. “You buy a share into a farm or become a member and then pay a certain amount up front for the season,” Mike Garcia says. “Then, the farm follows through with a variety of vegetables — a vegetable box each week. … Everything we sell off this farm, we grow, and it’s directly from us to the consumer.” For the Garcias, supporting the community — and receiving support from the community in return

— is one of the best things about running a hyperlocal farm. Many of the Baldwin Park clients they serve have been supportive since the beginning of Everoak Farm. “There’s one woman who has been with us literally since the first market we’ve been doing,” Nikki Garcia says. “We were selling at the Audubon (Park) Community Market … and that’s how we met her. A good friend of mine, her sister-in-law (in Baldwin) purchases a box every week. We’ve delivered to apartments, to the little townhouses, and to the big, big houses.” Nikki Garcia added people who purchase from their market garden, CSA program or farm stand are not only getting locally sourced produce, but also they are supporting a local family. “You can get it right here, right in your backyard,” she says. “You’re directly supporting locally, and you’re directly supporting a family, as well, because it’s my husband and I and our son — and he does work, too! It’s literally the three of us, and that’s what’s cool about it.”

EVEROAK FARM 2335 Carrington Drive, Orlando PHONE: (407) 879-3338 FARM STAND HOURS: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sundays WEBSITE: everoakfarm.com EMAIL: everoakfarm@gmail.com INSTAGRAM: @ everoakfarm

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KEEPING IT REAL ESTATE

CHRISTINA RORDAM FLORIDA REALTY INVESTMENTS Christina Rordam is a local Realtor and a member of ORRAs Top Producer Club. For more, visit christinasellsorlando.com.

No, Orlando isn’t headed for a housing crash

rlando real estate has remained robust despite economic uncertainty caused by COVID-19. Strength in the Orlando housing sector is expected to continue, and for sellers to hold the upper hand due to reduced inventory well into 2022 or even 2023. Although I’ve heard many express concern for a housing recession brought on by COVIDcaused job loss and subsequently foreclosures, I’ve not personally seen or experienced any socalled “housing bubbles” or overvalued properties. Locally, even if we were to experience a large amount of foreclosed properties hitting the market, we would still have insufficient supply of homes for would-be buyers. Every week, I get calls from families planning moves to Orlando, certain of what they want and happy to be moving to the land of Mickey Mouse and sunshine. Year-to-year price growth has been steady and predictable, providing homeowners with the ability to move up into larger or more desirable homes by leveraging the equity in their current homes. And with more time spent at home for work and school, homes with spare rooms for offices and Zooming, pools and extra land are more popular than ever. Condo owners, don’t fret: Plenty still like living maintenance-free. So, if a housing crash is unlikely for Orlando, what trends are emerging in 2021?

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | MARCH 2021

INVESTORS ARE ACTIVE

Yes, it is still possible to flip homes in a seller’s market. At the bottom of the housing crash — now many years ago — oversupply of homes for sale was a huge problem, and sellers were discounting their homes as much as possible. Many who were positioned to buy were able to gain market share and build a portfolio of rental homes and/or future flips. Now that we are in the reverse situation — with more buyers than sellers and strong demand and low interest rates — the competition for good homes is fierce. So, you may not be able to snag that move-in ready home in a hot neighborhood for pennies on the dollar — but the deals are still there. May I suggest a 203k or conventional renovation loan? Perfect for first-time investors looking to buy and hold, these renovations of rehab-style loans allow purchasers to incorporate repairs and upgrades into the properties they are buying. Right now, I have a buyer looking at a gorgeous 100-yearold historic home in the heart of downtown. It needs work, but the beauty of the property can be restored with the help of a renovation loan. New roof, floors, duct work and A/C? No problem. There are plenty of diamonds in the rough — some rougher than others — that can be polished to perfection with a little love. Investors may have to look a bit harder or hold the home a bit more, but there is money to be made even now.

RELOCATION GROWING I’ve mentioned it a few hundred times in the past year: Families are relocating to Orlando in large numbers. Florida is a popular destination for those leaving states with high taxes and higher property values. More and more work from home and plan to continue to do this for at least the majority of the week. I’ve seen an increase in “relo” buyers in 2021 and a greater comfort level with video viewings of homes, oftentimes ending with the buyer seeing their home for the first time after close. This is great for sellers. Out-of-town buyers are most times motivated and laser-focused on what they want. Relocating buyers will continue to strengthen a seller’s prospects and offers.

DON’T MISS OUT

If you own a home and have been eyeing a move — whether to the other side of town or the other side of the state — now is a good time to make it. Rates are low, and it’s likely you have equity there that can be used to buoy your new buy. If you are able to sell your home at a good price — as well as acquire a historically low interest rate — you may be able to buy that dream home you had thought out of reach! It’s true that not all housing news is good right now, but some good things are still happening, much like during the Great Recession. Out of the storm does come sunlight, so if you are able to make a move that improves your quality of life, now may be the perfect time. After all, one thing this virus has shown us all is how precious life is. Why not make the most of yours now?

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BALDWIN PARK LIVING | MARCH 2021

WHAT’S SELLING 2247 SNOW ROAD, ORLANDO SALE PRICE: $1,450,000 SQUARE FEET: 4,899 BEDROOMS: Six BATHS: 7.5

DETAILS: A David Weekley masterpiece, this estate home is built with an expansive open-concept floor plan and designer details. Upon entering, you are greeted with a spacious office on one side and a formal dining room with butler area on the other. The downstairs master bedroom suite has an en suite bath and exceptional closet space. A first-floor guest room with private bath and walk in closet are an entertainer’s dream. The chef’s kitchen has wood cabinets and a gas range. A Spanish tile staircase takes you to the second floor with three large bedrooms and a main gathering loft area.

Photographer: Rickie Agapito

LISTING AGENT: Maria Velez Restrepo, Kelly Price & Company SELLING AGENT: Liz Jones, Mainframe Real Estate

2049 BIDDLE ALLEY, ORLANDO SALE PRICE: $880,000 SQUARE FEET: 3,132 BEDROOMS: Four BATHS: 4.5

Photographer: Rickie Agapito

LISTING AGENT: Maria Velez, Kelly Price & Company SELLING AGENT: Robert Christiano, Coldwell Banker Realty

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | MARCH 2021

DETAILS: This Mediterranean home built by David Weekley is located on one of two private parkways in Baldwin Park. The great room has two-story vaulted ceilings. There are two primary suites on the second floor, with a third bedroom or office off the entryway on the first floor. A separate entry from either the alley or the pool area leads you to a hallway with cabinets and wine storage. Finally, the back multilevel courtyard hosts an outdoor kitchen, a gazebo-covered dining area, and a custom pool with a spa and fountain.

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Beautifully upgraded manor pool home overlooking Lake Baldwin. This 5/4.5 features a downstairs master suite and wood floors throughout the downstairs. Gorgeous custom millwork, crown molding, plantation shutters. Custom built resort like pool and spa and exquisite landscape designed by Signature Landscape. Garage apartment renovation was completed in 2019 with plank tile flooring, Quartz countertops and all new cabinetry and appliances. Great location close to Baldwin Park’s downtown restaurants and all that it has to offer!

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What’s Selling in ld ays o S D 3

• Highest Sales Volume in New Construction in 2013

This beautifully designed one story home has an open floor plan that is light and bright and was completely renovated throughout! Gorgeous kitchen with Carrara marble backsplash, a large center island w/ Quartz and tons of storage, Viking 36 gas range, Bosch dishwasher and microwave and farmhouse sink. Split bedroom plan with both bathrooms being fully renovated with marble flooring, Quartz counters and custom cabinetry and lighting. All bedrooms have new upgraded Berber carpet, light fixtures, upgraded baseboards and custom closets. New AC and new roof. This property was very well done and is a true gem!

• Ranked Top Producer since 2002 • Resident of Baldwin Park since 2004

Sold for $725,000

in ld ays o S D 2

This Firenze David Weekley townhome is close to everything Baldwin Park has to offer. Impeccably maintained unit with over $60k in upgrades featuring gorgeous engineered hardwood floors throughout most of the home, 8ft doors, crown molding throughout and custom built-in closets in all the rooms. The first floor features the perfect place for a home office or playroom, or could easily be converted into a 3rd bedroom w/ a private full bath and access to the 2 car garage. Oversized and stunning kitchen is a chef’s dream with granite countertops, stainless appliances, wine refrigerator, custom cabinetry with pull-out drawers and a huge butcher block island. Brand new AC.

Sold for $495,000

Top floor 2bed/2bath plus study/den condo in Baldwin Park. Recent upgrades include new paint and engineered hardwood floors throughout. This updated condo boasts granite countertops, french doors to the lanai from living room and master bedroom, separate study/den and a one car garage. Short walk to the community pool and fitness center, as well as, Baldwin Park’s downtown area.

Lisa Fleming

407.644.1234 321.228.8341 cell Lisa@fanniehillman.com

Sold for $340,000 346627-1

in ld ays o S D 6

“The Right Representation Makes the| MARCH Difference” BALDWIN PARKAll LIVING 2021 31

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | MARCH 2021

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Baldwin Park Living March 2021

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