Baldwin Park Living April 2021 by Orange Observer

BALDWIN PARK

LIVING APRIL 2021

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | APRIL 2021

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Kimberley R. Gernert Real state Specialist Baldwin Park Resident

CAL L ME

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FOR A PRIVATE SHOWIN G

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“I met Kimberley at an open,house theninI Baldwin Park. earted and kind-h savvy e, experienced, professional, Immediately, I knew whotetothe call marke when ittcame "If you are looking for a Realtor who is knowledgeablGerner to to buying and naviga ically strateg us helped t. She selling our homes. She did a phenomenal job showcasing strongly and unequivocally recommend Kimberley of step every wit alleviated stress good-natured our home with open houses, pictures and a virtual video find a home for our lifestyle. Her professionalism, enthusiasm and sailing h smoot ly certain was It . and sold our current home within the monthtour. Kimberley even visited Kimberley R. around Gernert us on her bike, she truly is she turned the way. Then, their and about clients cares good hands with someone who genuinely the BP neighborhood realtor! I highly recommend her to such in were we ng knowi and so nice (423) 381 - 5701 anyone looking for a knowledgeable, positive and upmost families." in Park, FL professional real estate agent. Thank you, Kimberley Baldw / Park r Winte of KMP KimberleyRG@kw.com

for all of your advice and support!.”

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CONTENTS

APRIL 2021

BON APPÉTIT

NEW CHEF IN TOWN Michael Cooper now heads up the kitchen at The Osprey Orlando.

DEPARTMENTS 8 BALDWIN PARK NOTEBOOK Read about recent decisions made by community leaders. 14 WHAT A GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD WE LIVE IN Denny O’Neil reflects on Baldwin Park’s beginnings. 15 COMMUNITY CALENDAR Looking for something fun in Baldwin Park? Find it here.

16 16 FROM THE COVER Pastel artist and resident Orit Reuben has a passion for capturing local scenery. 20 GROUPS & GATHERINGS Looking to connect? Find your perfect group here. 22 BEAUTY IN LEADERSHIP Entrepreneur Bekah Breland leads the local WIN! group. 28 WHAT’S SELLING See four homes that sold recently in Baldwin Park.

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | APRIL 2021

BALDWIN PARK

LIVING APRIL 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.

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | APRIL 2021

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PRODUCTION

Baldwin Park notebook ROA BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

n Reserve study update for 2022: The signed update proposal was sent to Dreux Isaac & Associates. Management will begin compiling the pertinent information needed to complete the study.

BY STACEY FRYREAR The following information is a glimpse of the ROA’s general updates for the month. A copy of the official Feb. 23, 2021, meeting minutes can be obtained on the Community Network at BaldwinParkNetwork.com once approved.

BOARD APPROVALS HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR OWNERS

n The board appointed Thomas Page to the Board of Directors after acknowledging Kenneth Roberts’ resignation. The board thanks Kenneth for his many years of service on both the ROA and Joint Committee boards.

This is a great time for taking 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.

n The board approved acknowledging June 5, 2021, as Baldwin Park Day (20-year anniversary). n The board approved having the Spring Porch Sale on Saturday, March 27. Park spaces were not to be utilized for setup. n The board approved starting the off-duty weekend pool patrols the first weekend in April through the last weekend in September. n The board approved dissolving the committee set up to review the documents for possible modifications at this time. n The board approved the insurance policy renewal costs. n The board approved landscape replacements at various parks/mews. n The board approved appointing Tiffani Lindstrom to the Joint Committee to replace Kenneth Roberts.

UPDATES n Sidewalk panel replacements: The replacement of five sidewalk panels at Fox Mews and Enders Park have been completed. n Enders pool resurfacing: The pool-resurfacing project started Jan. 18 and was anticipated to be completed by the week of March 22. n Landscape/sod replacements: The approved replacements for City Homes No. 2 Mews, City Homes No. 4 Mews, City Homes No. 3 Mews, the Yard, Enders Park and High Park have been completed. Corrine Commons, the Yard and Upper Union Park root pruning and Bermuda replacement will be completed once the sod is out of dormancy.

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | APRIL 2021

n Enforcement handbook: The enforcement handbook was provided to the committee for review. This handbook incorporates 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). n Resurface of Enders parking lot: The board approved a proposal of $3,500 to resurface the parking lot at Enders Park. The contractor chosen is no longer available. Management is obtaining a proposal from the contractor that the Urban Orlando CDD and the Commercial Owners Association are using for their parking-lot work this year. An updated proposal will be brought back for approval. n Legal counsel: Management emailed the RFP to the firms designated by the board. Those responses have been received and are being evaluated by the Evaluation Committee. n Baldwin Park 20-year anniversary: Baldwin Park is celebrating its 20-year anniversary on June 5. On the 10-year anniversary, a spotlight story was added to the magazine spotlighting the first owner in Baldwin Park who closed on her home Dec. 27, 2002. Look for updates on celebrating Baldwin Park Day in the near future. COVID-19 ITEMS ON HOLD n Proposals for bollard light painting in CH No. 2 and CH No. 4 Mews.

n Proposals for High Park facility center (gutter cleaning, painting light poles, painting pool fencing and caulking/ weatherproofing) 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. COVID-19 UPDATES n The Association Office and Grace Hopper gathering room remain closed. n Enders gathering room is open for reservations/classes/ clubs with the following criteria: No more than 10 people when table and chairs are in use, and no more than 20 people so long as no table and chairs are in use; reduced time slots by 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; users must sign an online waiver agreeing to social distancing and the mandatory wearing of masks before the reservation will be confirmed. n High Park pavilions are open for reservations/classes/clubs with the following criteria: Users must sign an online waiver agreeing to social distancing and the mandatory wearing of masks before the reservation will be confirmed.

TOWNHOME SERVICE AREA COMMITTEE BY MELISSA PARKER MParker@BalwinParkPOA.com The following information is a glimpse of the business that the Townhome Service Area Committee addressed in the Feb. 18, 2021, meeting. A complete copy of the official minutes can be obtained on the Community Network at BaldwinParkNetwork.com once approved. n Mary Edwards, arborist, was formally introduced to the committee. Mary Edwards took over the handling and reviewing of the service areas for inspecting trees when they require replacement or assistance with health. n The TSAC moved to deny any additional painting or touch-up painting requests or repairs made outside of the scheduled annual preventative-maintenance periods.

BALDWIN PARK COMMERCIAL OWNERS ASSOCIATION INC. BY BILL PATTERSON VILLAGE CENTER UPDATES 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. Please be mindful of coned-off areas in front of the buildings where the painting is taking place. n The Village Center Parking lots will be getting a sealcoat and re-stripe. The tentative schedule is for mid to late April and should take four to

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 that was installed in January has been treated with a fungicide. n BrightView treated and fertilized the gardenias located in Live/Work service area.

HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR TOWNHOUSE OWNERS Dryer Vent Cleaning n The Baldwin Park Townhome Service Area Committee would like to ensure every owner is aware of the importance of cleaning your dryer vent. It is recommended the dryer vents be cleaned every year. Lint clings and can build up inside of the vent hosing, which can create a potential fire hazard by trapping the heat inside the vent system. When this happens, it also can cause condensation to form that in some cases creates what looks like a leak on your

ceiling. Please check the phone book, internet or any other referral source for carpet-cleaning companies, dryer vent-cleaning companies or other general contractors for this type of work.

n BrightView treated all sod in townhome service areas with herbicide.

n Townhome service area camellias were fertilized and are blooming.

(July); Live/Work (September); Issa 22 (October); and Cambridge (November).

n Per DRS Inc., the townhome painting schedule for 2021 is as follows: Live/Work, Issa 22, Cambridge, City Homes No. 2.

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

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

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT STATE FARM OF BALDWIN PARK Your local State Farm of Baldwin Park is located at 922 Lake Baldwin Lane. The team takes pride in being different than the competition. Our mission is to go above and beyond to treat people like we would like to be treated ourselves. Simply put, we do

six weeks, weather permitting. This will be done in phases as to minimize parking lot closures. Plenty of notice will be given of when each lot will be closed so that arrangements can be made.

the little things other agencies won’t or don’t do. Our goal is to offer total protection so when the unexpected happens, you know you are properly covered. They are active in the community, and for the month of April, they are teaming up with the Second

n We have received many complaints of improper use of scooters, skateboards and bikes around the Village Center. This is distracting to the shoppers and diners. Since this issue is occurring on private property, it is outside the COA’s jurisdiction; however, we are working

Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida by donating $10 for every quoted household they prepare for auto, home or life insurance for those who currently do not have State Farm. No purchase is required for the $10 to be donated.

with the Village Center property managers on solutions. Please, if you notice or know any of the offenders, let them know or call the Orlando Police Department non-emergency phone number at (321) 235-5300.

Notebook continued on page 12

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | APRIL 2021

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Baldwin Park notebook 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 city-owned light outages using this app, as well. n We are excited to start a project to replace parking-lot lights as they go out with energy-saving LED lights. These lights will save energy and light up the parking lots brighter than the old ones. 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 to Bill at bpatterson@ baldwinparkpoa.com.

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WHAT A GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD WE LIVE IN!

In the beginning: Baldwin Park edition I

n the February edition of Baldwin Park Living, I talked about my experience finding Baldwin Park and then deciding to build a home here. Now, the rest of the story.

VILLAGE CENTER

In February 2004, we moved into our home. A lot of building activity was going on in Baldwin Park, but the Village Center, one of the big draws Baldwin Park had for me, was not open. When you drove up New Broad Street from Bennett Road, you were stopped at a chainlink fence at Meeting Place. Earlier, the developers of Baldwin Park had developed Celebration located down by Disney World and learned the grocery store had to come in early in the development process. The Baldwin Park Publix opened in April 2004. Yeah! Finally, the barrier to the Village Center was removed, and many of the stores, offices and businesses on New Broad Street opened. Since then, there have been closings and openings of many stores, eating places and offices. But the Village Center has lived up to the concept contained on the table layout of Baldwin Park. Concurrent with anticipation about the Village Center, residents were wondering when or if we ever would be able to access Winter Park by driving north on Lakemont Avenue. Lakemont had a barrier near the intersection of Lakemont Avenue and Gray Avenue that prevented driving north. The city of Winter Park, as part of the agreements about Baldwin

Park, insisted Lakemont Avenue in Baldwin Park would not be used to access Winter Park until Baldwin Park Street was opened. The city of Winter Park believed that because there was no other route from Baldwin Park to Winter Park, Baldwin Park resident traffic would cause problems on Lakemont Avenue in Winter Park. Baldwin Park Street — to connect Lake Baldwin Lane to North Semoran Boulevard — would be built and divert a lot of the Winter Parkbound traffic off Lakemont onto North Semoran. This would include nonresident traffic, which otherwise would use Colonial to Lake Baldwin Lane to Glenridge Way to Lakemont to access Winter Park. True to the agreement, as soon as Baldwin Park Street was opened to traffic, Winter Park opened Lakemont to Baldwin Park traffic. (School bus routes were another factor in the agreement.)

BUB

Leftover from the U.S. Navy Base located in Baldwin Park until 1995 was a barracks building. It was a bit of an eyesore at six stories tall, rather plain and surrounded by a chainlink fence. (It did have some decorative graffiti on the exterior, though!) Baldwin Park residents nicknamed it the BUB (Big Ugly Building). At one point, a developer wanted to remodel just the inside and use it as an apartment building or condominiums. The ROA asked the city of Orlando apply the Baldwin Park building standards when deciding if this would be allowed. The city ruled against

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | APRIL 2021

the plan. So, the BUB remained a prominent, if not well-liked, feature of Baldwin Park until a company secured approval for the AZUL project and razed the BUB. Those were the days. My wife and my then son-in-law used to go to the vacant field located behind my house and practice their golf swing by hitting golf balls into the big field there. The field consisted of sand occasionally populated by wild grasses and weeds and some live oak trees, so it was easy to find the balls. They would practice a couple of times a month. Golf season ended when Audubon Park Elementary School (now Baldwin Park Elementary School) was built there. By the way, some of the big live oak trees on that lot were seriously damaged by hurricanes and removed before the school was built. More. Until 2016, a vacant field (on the east side) and a 240-vehicle, hard-surface temporary parking lot (on the west side) existed at the end of New Broad Street near Lake Baldwin. My golly (a little Andy Griffith there), there was a lot of discussion about how those areas were going to be developed. For a while, two 11-story condos — one on each side of New Broad Street — were the plan. It was rumored that all the 11th-floor penthouses were sold! Then, in 2008, the housing bubble burst, and the project ended. Now, Baldwin Harbor sits on those two lots. Part of the stipulations for the lots required 200 public parking spaces as those parking spaces were essential for the success of the Village Center.

DENNY O’NEIL FORMER BALDWIN PARK RESIDENTIAL OWNERS ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT

GOING IN CIRCLES

Longtime residents probably remember when there was a small-diameter traffic circle on Lakemont Avenue at the intersection with Upper Park Road. It was there, and a larger version is still there, because it was a requirement of a Winter Park City Commission member during the negotiations over the development of Baldwin Park. I don’t like traffic circles. Because the smaller traffic circle wasn’t noticeable and was constantly ignored and violated by drivers, as leader of the Baldwin Park Traffic Committee, I tried to get the city to remove it. No go, because its existence was part of the agreement, so the city enlarged it so it is obvious and can’t be ignored. Partial victory, but I still don’t like it.

BURIED SUBMARINE

A Navy Shore policeman who had been stationed on the Navy base here swore to me that there was a submarine buried in Baldwin Park. I mentioned this to John Classe, of the Baldwin Park development team, in a phone call years ago, and he is still probably laughing about it. But, should you find it with a metal detector, let me know. Uhoh, what if it is in the lake! Finally, does the date June 5, 2021, mean anything to you? Watch for more information coming soon from the Joint Committee.

AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Community

Calendar APRIL 1

RESTORE THE ROAR VIRTUAL FUNDRAISER Through April. Many Baldwin Park high-schoolers attend Winter Park High School, and the Winter Park High School Foundation has canceled its live event due to COVID-19. The foundation has shifted to a virtual fundraising campaign to continue supporting the school. Donors can direct 20% of any donation to a WPHS club, organization or sports team of their choice. The campaign also is raising funds for band instruments and equipment; educational digital programs and tutoring support; Willie’s Mart (WPHS food pantry for students); student groups and programs; on-campus athletic facility upgrades; and further Showalter Field upgrades. Visit bit.ly/3p89iJL for more information or to donate.

APRIL 2

DJ PURO RHYTHM LIVE IN THE MIX 8 p.m. to midnight at Galeria Restaurant, 4979 New Broad St. Dance the night away at Galeria every Friday night with a deejay spinning the best in hip-hop, top 40 and throwbacks.

APRIL 7

TRIVIA AT TACTICAL 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Tactical Brewing Co., 4882 New Broad St. Join “The Intern” from BYOCB every Wednesday night as he hosts trivia at Tactical. Categories change each week. Keep an eye on Tactical’s social media to get the bonus word of the day. Staff suggests arriving at 6:30 p.m. with your thinking caps on. First-place

team wins a $25 gift card, second place wins a $15 gift card, and third place gets a $10 gift card.

APRIL 8

TSAC MEETING Meets at 6:30 p.m. virtually. Meetings are subject to change. Members should look for updated scheduling information in the weekly Wednesday resident updates.

APRIL 11

SUNDAY FUNDAY AT TACTICAL BREWING Enjoy beer slushies and “beermosas” starting at noon — with live music from 3 to 6 p.m. — every Sunday at Tactical Brewing, 4882 New Broad St.

APRIL 14

THE ROTARY CLUB OF THE PARKS Meets from 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. the second and fourth Wednesday of each month. The Rotary Club of the Parks is a diverse group of working professionals and neighbors that like to have fun while doing good in their community and the world. Visitors and guests are welcome. Meeting information is posted in the Baldwin Park Weekly resident email blast or at facebook.com/ RotaryClubOfTheParksOrlando. If you are interested in attending or learning more about Rotary club, please visit baldwinparkrotary.com.

APRIL 17

HARBOR HOUSE PAWS FOR PEACE WALK 8 a.m. Saturday, April 17, at Blue Jacket Park. The walk will start at 9 a.m. Tails are wagging in anticipation of this fun and leisurely stroll for pets, their families and friends.

APRIL 4

EASTER SERVICES AT NORTH PARK CHURCH 7 a.m. and 11 a.m. North Park Church is excited to be holding in-person services this Easter. The 7 a.m. Easter sunrise service takes place at Harbor Park at Lake Baldwin. Attendees should wear masks and social distance. There will be sectional seating for you and your guests. The 11 a.m. service takes place on the church campus — 2047 Prospect Ave. — with a children’s egg hunt to follow. Attendees are encouraged to wear masks and observe appropriate social-distancing protocols. There is limited seating available at both services due to health protocols. Guests are encouraged to pre-register for the service you plan to attend. If you do not pre-register, you are still welcome to attend and will be accommodated if space allows. Visit gonorthpark.com to pre-register.

to raise awareness about domestic abuse and its effect on pets and their owners. The walk benefits the Paws for Peace Kennel at Harbor House of Central Florida. For more information and to register, visit bit. ly/38t9cXS. Masks are required.

APRIL 22

ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE Meets at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Thursdays of the month virtually. Meetings subject to change. Members should look for updated scheduling information in the weekly Wednesday resident updates.

APRIL 24

SEVENTH ANNUAL OCBA LAW DAY 5K 8 a.m. Saturday, April 24, at Orlando Veteran’s Memorial Park, 2380 Lake Baldwin Lane. Orange County Bar Association, Inc.’s Law Day 5K Run/Walk is an event that supports free civil legal-aid programs and attracts runners and walkers from the Orange County and Central Florida legal communities. For more information, visit bit.ly/3l3ai1m.

APRIL 27

ROA BOARD MEETING Meets at 6:30 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of the month virtually. Meetings are subject to change. All members of the ROA can attend the meetings. The agenda for the upcoming meeting will be posted on the Baldwin Park Network the Friday prior to the upcoming meeting. You can also access previous meeting minutes. The minutes are always one month behind as they cannot be posted until they are approved. BALDWIN PARK LIVING | APRIL 2021

En plein air Resident and fine pastel artist Orit Reuben finds beauty in the ordinary, turning everyday scenery into the extraordinary through her artwork. DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

f you’ve ever biked or walked through Baldwin Park, chances are, you’ve seen artist Orit Reuben out with her easel and pastels, captivated by a nature scene or a beautiful front porch. As a fine pastel artist, Reuben finds inspiration in what others may consider ordinary — but her perspective goes a few steps beyond. She sees the way a sun beam bounces off a building or creates shadows and shapes, and she captures that moment in time. It’s what turns an otherwise ordinary scene into the extraordinary. Reuben, a Baldwin Park resident, grew up in Israel and moved to the United States with her family as a teenager. She was born into an artistic family and greatly influenced by her grandfather, an impressionist painter. Reuben’s mother also is an artist but is more self-taught. Reuben remembers painting at her mother’s side when she was young. “I always painted and drew as a child,” Reuben says. “However, I was taught to believe that you can’t really make a living as an artist, so I chose the more practical route and pursued interior design as a career.”

REDISCOVERY

She couldn’t escape the world of painting and fine arts, though. In fact, in 2009, it was a speeding ticket that led her back to the arts. She contested the ticket and was allowed to perform volunteer work rather than paying the fine. That’s Orit Reuben loves painting outdoors, or en plein air.

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | APRIL 2021

All images courteys of Orit Reuben

when she found the Crealdé School of Art in Winter Park. “I ended up volunteering at the office of Crealdé, which then gave me free classes at Crealdé, which led to a fellowship,” she says. “I kind of found the art back in there. … Then I started taking classes nationally. I found artists that I admired and pursued their classes — whether it was in Scottsdale, Arizona, or wherever it was — or I brought them here to Crealdé. I just kept taking classes and kept at it.” Reuben experimented with different media, including charcoal, crayons and oil paints. She fell in love with pastels by accident when working at Crealdé. “Someone donated a box of pastels to the school, and I asked the manager if I could keep it and started taking classes,” she says. “Then, I was hooked. I really found that I loved it. I just took to it, and the rest is history. I really love drawing, and so I find that it’s a mixture between drawing and painting, and holding the stick itself is more direct than holding a brush. I feel like I can con-

trol the medium better.” Reuben loves being outside painting on a sunny day and finds much inspiration in light effects. In recent years, she’s taken up plein-air landscape painting. She finds that different houses, buildings, nature scenes and even porches glow differently with the changing light at throughout the day and even during certain times of the year. “I’ll kind of keep a note in my mind at how the light hits certain things, certain houses, certain elements at different times of the year and day,” she says. “And it changes, so you kind of have to catch it at the right time and go back when it is nicest. … I see a streak of light, a beam of sunlight hitting a building or something that creates a nice shape for me, and then I’ll want to go back and paint it.”

INSPIRATION

You might find her painting along Baldwin Park’s canals – check out this month’s cover art – or paintThis piece done by Reuben is titled “Summer Blooms.”

Continued on page 18

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Reuben calls this piece “Pink Porch.”

ORIT REUBEN ART

Continued from page 17

WEBSITE: oritreuben.com EMAIL: oritreuben@yahoo.com FACEBOOK: facebook.com/ OritReubenArt INSTAGRAM: @oritreuben

ing from a photo she’s taken of a Great blue heron. Reuben loves the architectural style of the homes in Baldwin Park, especially the front porches donning flags. She also draws on her roots in Israel. When the pandemic began and everyone was at home, Reuben worked on a series of scenes from Jerusalem, which she painted from

photographs. It’s one of the series she’s most proud of as an artist. Currently, she’s captivated by the beauty of Florida wildlife — specifically great blue herons. She is even creating a series exclusively portraying the birds. “I’ll go anywhere in the neighborhood, or I’ll go to Mead Gardens, Wekiva Springs State Park, just different places,” she says. “Sometimes I find I need to change up the location to not get tired of it. Sometimes I’ll take a day trip somewhere else — I’ll drive out to St. Augustine or somewhere in the country, some dirt road in the middle of nowhere. That I’ll do with a friend, usually, for safety reasons. I’ve gone out early in the morning to St. Augustine and set my easel on the street.” She also participates in paintouts, such as the Winter Park Paint Out that normally takes place in the spring but has been rescheduled for the fall because of COVID-19. Paint-out events consist of invited artists from across the state and nationwide who paint for

an entire week outside. As they finish paintings, their work is hung in a gallery. The public is invited to visit all week, look at their artwork and purchase it. The next paint-out Reuben is participating in is the St. George Island Paint Out in May. You can also see her work on display in a handful of galleries in Winter Park, including at Passport Fine Art Gallery on Park Avenue, whom she is represented by. Additionally, Reuben works with local Realtors to create custom house portraits as closing gifts for their clients. “I feel like I connect to (art) emotionally,” she says. “I feel like there’s a lot of emotional energy looking at paintings I admire of other artists — and I feel that when I paint, I’m not a good judge of my own paintings, so I hope other people feel the same thing when they look at my paintings. I feel like often artists aren’t good judges of their own work. ... But I like what I’m doing, and I hope it resonates with someone else.”

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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. 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.

CONNECT

Group activities, lifestyle programs and community service projects are on Facebook! Please visit “Baldwin Park Lifestyle, Groups and Gatherings” to find out what’s happening in the neighborhood and connect with other Baldwin Park residents. This is a private Facebook group, so you’ll be asked to provide proof of residence to join.

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. GAMES GALORE! Adults are invited to play a variety of games on various Saturdays. Learn new games like Settlers of Catan or play the classics. Contact Robyn at rhzgrodin@gmail.com. GARDENERS GROWING TOGETHER This group will start hosting socially distantanced meetings for exchanging ideas. Email alysonescribano@gmail.com for details for the meeting on Friday, April 30, to celebrate Arbor Day. 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. Email niftyfiftiesplus@gmail.com. NOVEMBER PROJECT Unlike the name, this group

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | APRIL 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 various yoga and mind/ body fitness classes. Go with the Flow Yoga takes place at 9 a.m. Thursdays at Bennett Park; Ultimate Mind/Body Fitness at 10 a.m. Thursdays, Enders Park (Baldwin Park residents only); Fun Friday Yoga at 9 a.m. Fridays, Union Park (Baldwin Park residents only); Go With the Flow Yoga at 9 a.m. Saturdays, Bennett Park; Powerful You Yoga at 10 a.m. Saturdays, Bennett Park. Reach instructor Becca Schmidt at Becca@bluemoon. yoga or (407) 276-3478. n CHAMPIONSHIP MARTIAL ARTS — In-person classes are back in action with various safety precautions. Visit championshipmartialarts.com/baldwin-park to learn more. n F45 TRAINING — Enjoy a functional, full-body workout while improving energy levels, metabolic rate, strength and endurance. Visit f45training. com/baldwinparkfl.

n NOVEMBER PROJECT — This group is offering free weekly workouts. Visit november-project.com for more information. n RAY OF LIGHT YOGA — Yoga instructor Lisa Schreiber hosts Yin/Restorative Yoga at noon on Tuesdays, Bennett Park; as well as Yoga Flow at 9:30 a.m. Sundays, Bennett Park. Enjoy monthly outdoor Mommy and Me Yoga Best for little yogis ages 2 to 5 and their adult. Practice relaxation techniques and yoga poses, and get mindful with crafts and other activities for family fun. Reach Schreiber at lisafineman@yahoo.com. 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 9ROUND FITNESS — Enjoy a 30-minute total body workout in a kickboxing-themed fitness program. For information, visit facebook.com/9RoundOrlandoJakeSt.

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. PICK-UP BASKETBALL Basketball enthusiasts will meet at Blue Jacket Park

courts for five-on-five play as soon as the city basketball courts reopen! Contact Rick at rickschreiber2@gmail.com. TACTICAL BREWING RUNNING CLUB If you love beer and running, this group is for you. Meet at 6 p.m. Thursdays at Tactical Brewing Company’s tasting

All book clubs listed below welcome new members! Some book clubs have suspended their meetings, but others are engaging on Zoom. Determine the type of books you like to discuss, and contact the book 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. Contact Melissa at melissajay522@gmail.com. REAL DEAL NON-FICTION 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.

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. 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. WRITERS’ BLOCK WRITING GROUP For bloggers, poets and aspiring authors. 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. 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? Friends of animals? If you don’t see your interests reflected in the groups listed here, consider spearheading a new group. Email lifestyledirector@ baldwinparkpoa.com for more information.

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BOOK CLUBS

Beauty in networking As an owner of three small businesses and leader of the

Women Innovators Network group, Bekah Breland finds joy in her passions and in empowering other women. DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

ast year was rough for everyone — but especially for small business owners. Rebekah Breland — co-owner of Glow Girl Beauty Studio on Lake Baldwin Lane and the talent behind Beautified by Bekah — knows that all too well. She and her business partners had just finished curating their new space and were preparing for their grand-opening celebration this time last year when COVID-19 shut down nonessential operations. Like a true entrepreneur, though, she pushed forward in the face of adversity. Today, she not only runs multiple businesses but also is the mastermind behind the Baldwin Park “WIN! Women Innovators Network” group.

BEAUTIFUL BEGINNING

The Baldwin Park resident has been working in the cosmetology field for eight years. She started by doing hair and nails, but toward the end of cosmetology school, she became more interested in hairstyling and makeup. She opened her first studio shortly after graduating. She even freelanced for a year, traveling to clients to do weddings, makeup and hairstyling. After that, Breland decided to open a small studio in Orlando with another stylist. The two became friends, and their growing businesses soon required more space. “We decided to get a place over here in Baldwin so we could have multiple rooms and just more space, because I also crochet and make a whole bunch of stuff, so I wanted to display my work, too,” she says. “I also have local people selling their things here … and have little pop-ups, so we just wanted a

WIN! WOMEN INNOVATORS NETWORK WIN! is a group just for Baldwin Park women who own or manage a business. The group only was able to meet once pre-pandemic, but Breland is beginning to plan some group meetings and networking sessions in the near future. For more, contact her at beautifiedbybekah@gmail.com.

bigger space. Now, I do hairstyling, hair cutting and makeup there. The same girl I was with, she does makeup and microblading, and we have a third girl there now, and she does facials and lash lifts.” Whether at Glow Girl Beauty Studio or through Beautified by Bekah, Breland gets to do what she loves every day — work with hair and makeup to help people feel confident and beautiful. She offers different packages, specializes in curly hair, and sells all-natural, professional hair and skincare products. “I travel still for weddings or any type of events, but for the most part, people come to the studio — like if it’s their birthday or anniversary dinner or something that they want to get ready for there,” she says. “I just like when people see themselves in the mirror after they’re done, and they just feel beautiful. Their attitude changes; they’re just happy. That makes me feel good to make them feel good.” Breland says although clients are starting to book again, business is more sluggish than before the pandemic began. Before, she

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may have had 10 weddings booked in one month. Now, she’s lucky if she has two or three. “It’s been a lot different, and I used to travel to events, flying to wherever for certain events like bodybuilding competitions or anything that requires hair and makeup,” she says. “A lot of that slowed down, too, so this year, I’m hoping everything builds back up.” Glow Girl Beauty Studio opened right before everything shut down last year, and it was tough for a few months. Luckily, Breland also crochets on the side and sells her work through her Etsy shop, The Yarn and Charms. It’s part of what kept her going throughout quarantine. “I was making a lot of baby stuff or just trying to online market and fix up my social media to reach more people,” she says. “I was focusing on selling skincare, hair products, stuff like that. … We were just getting stuff together and making package deals, so that whenever we opened, we were ready. It was rough at first. It was not what we expected, which was disappointing, because we were really excited. But we made it through.”

IN IT TO WIN IT

That level of innovation — and watching so many others around her innovate — emphasizes the main principle behind the WIN! group. Breland says she spoke with former Baldwin Park lifestyle director Becca Schmidt and lamented that there wasn’t a group for only women in Baldwin Park. That’s when WIN! was born. “It’s kind of like a support system for other women who are business owners, entrepreneurs and stuff so that we could bounce ideas off of each other, have events together, support each other and get to know everyone within our neighborhood,” she says. “There’s a lot of women that own businesses here, or maybe it’s an online business we don’t know about. I basically just wanted to have that support system of women in Baldwin Park. … You can pretty much get everything you need here in Baldwin Park, and I kind of want

Courtesy photo

BRELAND’S BUSINESSES BEAUTIFIED BY BEKAH PHONE: (954) 683-8237 WEBSITE: beautifiedbybekah.com EMAIL: beautifiedbybekah@gmail.com INSTAGRAM: @beautifiedbybekah GLOW GIRL BEAUTY STUDIO FACEBOOK: facebook.com/ glowgirlbeautystudios INSTAGRAM: @glowgirlbeautystudios THE YARN AND CHARMS ETSY: etsy.com/shop/theyarnandcharms EMAIL: theyarnandcharms@ gmail.com FACEBOOK: facebook.com/ theyarnandcharms

that to be the case.” Unfortunately, WIN! also launched at the beginning of the pandemic, so the group only has been able to meet once so far. However, Breland is ready to pick up where the group left off and reconnect with other women innovators in the neighborhood. “It’s kind of refreshing to get together with just women for a change,” she says. “I was trying to meet in local businesses, as well, to support others’ local businesses while we meet each other. We could network together … there’s so many people that have businesses here, and we don’t know about it if it’s not on the main strip. “I want to get the word out for everyone of what we have here, because I’m sure there’s hundreds of people that live here that have no idea any of us exist … and they go elsewhere when they could walk to our business,” she says. “It’s just nice to have things nearby; that’s why I moved here.”

Baldwin Park resident Rebekah Breland co-owns Glow Girl Beauty Studio on Lake Baldwin Lane. She’s also the mastermind behind Beautified by Bekah and The Yarn and Charms.

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | APRIL 2021

THE OSPREY HAS LANDED

Michael Cooper takes great pride in cultivating the flavors and fresh food he dishes up as the new executive chef at The Osprey Orlando. DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

ichael Cooper chuckles at his younger self as he recalls showing up for his first day as a deli dishwasher wearing nice clothes. Then 14 years old and eager to learn, Cooper was just excited to have a job. But that first job paved the road ahead for him to land in his current role as executive chef at The Osprey Orlando in the heart of Baldwin Park. The chef joined the Osprey team last fall, and he has been adding his own flavor to the menu and serving the community ever since.

EARLY START

Courtesy photos

Michael Cooper is happy to have landed at The Osprey in Baldwin Park.

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | APRIL 2021

When Cooper first began washing dishes at a small, Jewish deli in his hometown, he quickly realized dishwashing was hard work — and a growing teenage boy needed to eat during his shifts. “It was one of those where I was getting hungry and asked the chef if I could have something to eat,” Cooper says. “His response basically was, ‘Yeah, do you know how to make a sandwich for yourself?’ … From then on, I started making my own food. They were happy that I

took a bit of initiative, so they started to show me how to do some prep. By the time I was 16, I was running their breakfast line on the weekends and learning to make basic dressings, breads and all that good stuff.” Cooper attended the University of Florida and paid his way through college by working in kitchens, including a stint at Miller’s Ale House in Gainesville for a couple of years. After moving to Orlando, he lived in Avalon Park and worked at a small, mom-and-pop bistro. “I learned a lot there as far as different techniques, coming up with specials, how to make soups and basic stuff like that,” Cooper says. He worked briefly at some sports bar-like restaurants in the Windermere area before getting hired at Winter Park’s now-closed Luma on Park. “I started doing salads, prep, pretty much whatever they needed,” he says. “I really fell in love with that kind of food and the way everything is disciplined, cleanliness and using great ingredients. From there, I moved up and went into the sous chef role and then into the chef de

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cuisine role, and I did that for the last five years or so.” When Luma closed in September 2020, Cooper found himself at a crossroads. He was working at London House in Dr. Phillips and was planning to enter a new role as head chef at its downtown location. That’s when a friend contacted him and told him about the executive chef opening at The Osprey. “We set up an interview, and I knew of Jason and Sue from different events in town … and they have a very solid reputation as good people to work with and work for,” Cooper says. “I was interested. We sat down, and I feel like our philosophies on running a business and how to treat people were just so in sync, and it felt really good.”

PALATABLE PASSION

After just a few months, Cooper has gotten to know many of The Osprey’s regulars and what they’re enjoying. He appreciates feedback and welcomes open, honest criticism. After all, he says, “That’s how you get better.” “The restaurant itself is beauti-

ful, the kitchen is great, I have pretty much free rein to do whatever I want,” he says. “I’ve loved the seafood concept. I’ve worked with fresh seafood forever — and I have some really good relationships and contacts with good fish purveyors and different fishermen. It’s just been really nice rounding out the menu a little bit and having that freedom to put on some good Florida flavors. “I would say right now, the majority of our menu right now is all Florida fish,” he says. “It’s very easy to get. It’s not always the cheapest, but I think that you should always want to pay for quality, and you kind of owe it to the people around you, too.” As executive chef, Cooper also enjoys teaching his staff and creating new things. It’s rewarding for him when a member of his team experiences an “aha” moment when he shows them a new technique or a better way of doing something. Building a strong team, he says, is just as important as being creative. “I love being able to work with my Continued on page 26

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Continued from page 25 hands and see the results of it fairly quickly,” he says. “You get a whole fish, and you turn it into a bunch of beautiful filets that that night are going to get cooked up into a bunch of entrées. You get to see the fruits of your labor every day, which I think is interesting and fun.” Regarding favorites, Cooper tends to gravitate more toward flavor profiles than specific dishes. He loves a good, clean flavor, and he is a firm believer in keeping a dish as simple as possible, so guests can savor the flavors. “You really want to make the ingredients you use — especially if you buy good ones — kind of shine,” he says. Cooper says he considers himself lucky to have landed on The Osprey’s team. He enjoys being in Baldwin Park and having the opportunity to dish out some great local flavor. “I love what I do, and I couldn’t really imagine myself doing anything else,” he says. “I feel very fortunate in that … and I feel like I landed in a great spot with great people.”

“

Courtesy

It’s just been really nice rounding out the menu a little bit and having that freedom to put on some good Florida flavors.” — MICHAEL COOPER

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4355 GABRIELLA LANE

1397 BENNETT ROAD, ORLANDO SALE PRICE: $532,000 SQUARE FEET: 2,241 BEDROOMS: Three BATHS: 3.5

DETAILS: This home has large patios on first and second floors, as well as oversized two-car garage with extra storage. A large family room leads to the dining room, then to kitchen with a breakfast bar and nook. A handy door then leads to patio area. One bedroom suite is located downstairs, along with a half-bath for guests. Upstairs, the landing comes to a great, cozy work desk space that leads to the outdoor patio. The master bedroom is adorned with a tray ceiling, crown molding and three closets. A large master bathroom has two sinks, soaking tub and frameless shower enclosure. An additional bedroom suite completes the upstairs. This home also has custom wood shades, lots of woodwork and loads of charm.

Photographer: Rickie Agapito

LISTING AGENT: Teresa Jones-Cintron and Elim Cintron, Kelly Price & Company SELLING AGENT: Tyler Adams, eXp Realty

1811 BRITLYN ALLEY, ORLANDO SALE PRICE: $461,720 SQUARE FEET: 1,904 BEDROOMS: Three BATHS: 3.5

Photographer: Rickie Agapito

LISTING AGENT: Padgett McCormick, Kelly Price & Company SELLING AGENT: Steven Kropp, Kropp Real Estate Advisory Inc.

BALDWIN PARK LIVING | APRIL 2021

DETAILS: This David Weekly townhouse features a covered patio overlooking a quaint courtyard. Upon entry, a private full guest suite with an ensuite bathroom or office is to the left along the hallway. The stairwell leads you to the second floor, where the living areas are located. The kitchen stands out with white cabinetry, light granite countertops, an extra-large island with bar-top seating, wine refrigerator and stainless-steel appliances. Open to the kitchen is the dining area and living room. The master suite is on the third floor and has a large master bathroom with dual vanities, spacious shower and a walk-in closet with built-in organization.

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This 3/2.5 townhome with over 2,100 sq ft is an end unit and sits on a larger lot. Well maintained home with hardwood floors throughout the downstairs and crown molding in the formal living spaces. Open floor plan with separate living and dining rooms, plus an open kitchen/ family room area and breakfast nook. Nice office area downstairs with a built in desk space. All bedrooms are upstairs as well as the laundry area. Amazing outdoor living space with new landscaping and a lovely brick patio, making it the perfect place for entertaining.

2018 Award Winner of “Real Estate Agency Neighborhood Favorite” by Nextdoor Baldwin Park 2017 Ovations Award Winner for “Best Real Estate Agency” by the Winter Park/ Maitland Observer Readers

• One of Baldwin Park’s Top Realtors in 2020

Asking $459,000

• Highest Sales Volume in Townhomes in 2015

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• Highest Sales Volume in New Construction in 2013

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!

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

Sold for $1,350,000

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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!

Sold for $725,000

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

Lisa Fleming

407.644.1234 321.228.8341 cell Lisa@fanniehillman.com 346628-1

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BALDWIN PARK LIVING | APRIL 2021

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