BALDWIN PARK LIVING
FEBRUARY 2025
Top Realtor in Baldwin Park since 2015
Orlando HOT 100 Realtors since 2019
Baldwin Park Resident for over 20 years
Ranked in Top Producer Magazine since 2015
Gold Key Certified
Orlando 5 Star Professional Realtor by Orlando Style Magazine since 2017 4 bedrooms | 3.5 baths Renovated
BALDWIN PARK LIVING
FEBRUARY 2025
Editor and Publisher Michael Eng, meng@orangeobserver.com
EDITORIAL
Design Editor — Jessica Eng, jeng@orangeobserver.com
Contributors — Brie Bernstel, Cathy Lieblich, Michael Lynch and Suz Tapy
ADVERTISING
Sales Associate Kassie Gustafson, kgustafson@orangeobserver.com
Graphic Designer — Sarah Santiago, ssantiago@orangeobserver.com
CONTACT
To submit story ideas, calendar listings or have your event considered for
contact Suz Tapy at stapy@baldwinparkpoa.com. For advertising inquiries, call (407) 656-2121.
Park Joint Committee Inc.
Loving thy neighbor
CATHY LIEBLICH CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The Neighbors Network connects volunteers with neighbors who need help.
February is the perfect month to spotlight a nonprofit membership organization in our community that is all about “loving your neighbor”!
The organization is called Neighbors Network and is led by Cathy Lieblich, a Baldwin Park resident. Cathy retired in 2022 after 42 years in the field of aging and social work and became the volunteer board president of Neighbors Network soon afterward.
Neighbors Network is all about “neighbors helping neighbors” with volunteers helping older adults stay living in the home they love, connected to their community. Vetted volunteers provide rides to appointments,
NEIGHBORS NETWORK
To learn more, visit neighborsnetworkfl.org or contact Cathy Lieblich at cathy@neighborsnetworkfl.org.
grocery stores, hair salons and other community locations; do occasional household tasks such as organizing, decluttering, minor household repairs, changing lightbulbs and smoke alarm batteries; and help with paperwork, light gardening and technology support (phones, tablets, remotes, etc.).
Neighbors Network also offers monthly activities and programs for their members, including
lunch at a restaurant, a book club, a creative arts group, and museum visits. Membership costs less than a dollar a day (scholarships may be available for those who cannot afford the fee).
Here’s what a Neighbors Network Volunteer and Member say about it.
“I love the members and have really enjoyed meeting people I never otherwise would have met,” says Sandy, a volunteer since 2023. “I like the variety of requests that come in and helping the members with something they view as a challenge. If I can make even a small difference in their life by doing things I enjoy and they need done, then that feels like a win-win to me.”
Nancy has been a member since 2019.
I’m thrilled to have a network of volunteers a phone call away,” she says. “Volunteers helped me downsize my home and settle into a condo I love. Neighbors Network thinks of what older people like me may need and benefit from before we think of it. I love that papers I want professionally shredded are picked up by a volunteer a few times a year. I enjoy the Share a Title Book Club, where participants talk about books they’ve enjoyed reading. I have made friends and feel connected to people who care about me.”
Neighbors Network is a local non-profit operating since 2013. They welcome new Members (55+) and Volunteers (18+). Vetted volunteers enjoy the flexible approach to scheduling what they enjoy doing. Neighbors Network has a social gathering for members and volunteers twice a year which provides the opportunity to be together as “a community of belonging.”
Courtesy photos
The Neighbors Network gives Baldwin Park residents a chance to help their fellow neighbors and make new friends.
Celebrating the Tuskegee Airmen
SUZ TAPY COMMUNITY RELATIONS COORDINATOR
SENTRY
FMANAGEMENT
ebruary is Black History Month, and because Baldwin Park has a history of its own (that being a strong military history), it seemed fitting to write a little bit about how this month came to be and acknowledge and celebrate the first black U.S. military aviators, particularly during their service in World War II.
ORIGIN STORY
Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Since 1976, every U.S. president has designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating Black history.
However, the story of Black History Month didn’t happen in our bicentennial year, but in 1915, a half-century after the 13th Amendment abolished slavery in the United States. That September, the Harvard-trained historian Carter G. Woodson, and the prominent minister Jesse E. Moorland founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, an organization dedicated to researching and promoting achievements by black Americans and other people of African descent. Dr. Woodson dedicated his life to educating African Americans about the achievements and contributions of their ancestors. In 1926, the group chose the second week of February to celebrate and to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Freder-
ick Douglass. The event inspired schools and communities nationwide to organize local celebrations and host performances and lectures.
By the late 1960s, thanks in part to the Civil Rights Movement and a growing awareness of black identity, the week evolved into Black History Month on many college campuses.
President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976, calling upon the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
Today, Black History Month is a time to honor the contributions and legacy of African Americans across U.S. history and society — from activists and civil rights pioneers such as Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Trush, Marcus Garvey, Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X and Rosa Parks to leaders in industry, politics, science, culture and more.
CHANGE IS IN THE AIR
Three government initiatives occurred between 1938 and 1940 that paved the way for blacks to participate in the nation’s defense and become military pilots.
1. Civilian Pilot Training Act of 1939. On Dec. 27, 1938, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt announced an experimental civilian pilot training program. That experimental program, which began in early 1939, involved 330 openings at 13 colleges, none of which was black. On Jan. 12, 1939, Roosevelt asked Congress to pass legislation to authorize a permanent Civilian Pilot Training Program. The Civilian Pilot Training Act of 1939 passed June 27 1939, and funds were appropriated for it in August. The legislation included a provision that called for the program
not to exclude anyone on the basis of race. Most of the colleges and universities that participates in the permanent CPT program beginning in 1939 were white or predominantly white, but six black colleges also took part. A handful of black CPT students attended predominantly white universities in the Northeast and Midwest.
2. Burke-Wadsworth Bill. In 1940, Congress passed the Selective Service and Training Service Act, which Roosevelt signed into law on Sept. 16, 1940. This act, also known as the Burke-Wadsworth Bill, was the first peacetime draft in U.S. history. It required all American males between the ages of 21 and 35 to register for the draft. The final version of the bill contained two provisions, 3(a) and 4(a), which spoke to the discrimination question:
Section 3(a) stated, “Within the limits of the quota determined … Any person regardless of race or color … shall be afforded an opportunity to volunteer for induction.”
Section 4(a) stated, “In the selection and training of men under this act, and in the interpretation and execution of the provision of this act, there shall be no discrimination against any person on account of race or color.”
3. First aviation class. That same year, the War Department announced that the Civil Aeronautics Authority, in cooperation with the U.S. Army, would begin development of “colored personnel” for the aviation service. This paved the way for blacks to train as pilots and vital support personnel.
Individuals came from every part of the country. Each one of them possessed a strong personal desire to serve the United States to the best of their ability.
The first aviation class of 13 cadets began July 19, 1941, with ground school training covering subjects such as meteorology, navigation and instruments. Basic flying training consisted of both ground school and flight training in military aircraft. The Air Corps provided aircraft, textbooks, pilot and mechanic uniforms, and parachutes. Tuskegee Institute furnished the facilities for the aircraft and personnel.
Successful cadets then transferred to the segregated Tuskegee Army Air Field to complete the Army Air Corps pilot training. The Army Air Corps (Army Air Forces) provided facilities, equipment and supplies for men and planes at TAAF, the largest of the flying training bases. Lt. Col. Noel F. Parrish served as the base commander from 1942 to 1946.
TUSKEGEE TAKES FLIGHT, HEROES AT HOME
The Tuskegee Airmen’s efforts enacted change both abroad and at home in the United States.
After the war in Europe ended in 1945, the black airmen and support personnel returned to the U.S., where they continued to face racism and bigotry despite their outstanding war record.
The Tuskegee program was expanded to become the center for black aviation during World War II. TAAF continued to train new airmen until 1946.
In March 1946, after the war ended, the 477th Composite Group moved from Godman Field to Lockbourne Army Air Base in Ohio.
On July 1, 1947, the 332nd Fighter Group replaced the 477th at Lockbourne. That same year, the Army Air Forces was replaced by the U.S. Air Force, independent from the Army. The 332nd Fighter Group became the only active black group in the new service. Large numbers of black airmen chose to remain in the service, but because of segregation were limited to the 332nd Fighter Group and 477th Composite Group.
Opportunities for advancement and promotion were also very limited, which affected morale. Nonetheless, black airmen and those in other fields continued to perform well.
During this period, many white units were undermanned and needed qualified people but were unable to get experienced black personnel because of the segregation policy. The newly formed U.S. Air Force began plans to integrate its units as early as 1947; however, integration did not occur until 1949.
In 1948, President Harry S. Truman enacted Executive Order 9981, which directed quality of treatment and opportunity to all in the U.S. armed forces.
In time, this order led to the end of racial segregation in the military and set the stage for racial integration in other areas of American society.
They fought two wars — one against a military enemy force overseas and another against racism at home. Success in both these efforts resulted in a “Double Victory.”
In March 1942, five of the 13 cadets in the first class completed the Army Air Corps pilot training program, earning their silver wings and becoming the nation’s first black military pilots. They were Second Lieutenants Lemuel R. Curtis, Charles DeBow, Mac Ross, George Spencer Roberts, and Captain Benjamin O. Davis, Jr., a West Point Academy graduate.
Three years after the end of World War II, Truman signed an executive order desegregating the military. It wouldn’t be until 60 years later, in 2007, that the Tuskegee Airmen received their long-overdue appreciation when they collectively earned the Congressional Gold Medal.
U.S. Air Force
This image of eight Tuskegee Airmen was captured somewhere between May 1942 and August 1943.
MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR:
Lander and Kari Gold
The Golds moved to Baldwin Park in 2019 and love the amenities and tight-knit community atmosphere.
MICHAEL LYNCH CONTRIBUTING WRITER
For Baldwin Park residents Lander and Kari Gold, faith, family and public service are all-encompassing features of their personal and professional lives.
“Family is extremely important in the Jewish culture,” Lander says. “I was raised in a large, close-knit family. Our Jewish faith stresses the vital importance of tradition and community in fostering and maintaining close, rewarding parent-child relationships.”
Originally from Long Island, New York, Lander moved in 1991 to Longwood. He graduated in 2007 from University of Florida with a degree in sociology followed by an MBA from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University.
Kari grew up in Boca Raton and graduated in 2008 from Ohio State University with a degree in hospitality management. The couple met in 2011 in Washington, D.C.
The Golds are proud parents to Henley, 5, and Maddox, 2. On a fun note, Lander and Kari recently celebrated their 10-year anniversary.
“For our special day, we lunched in Baldwin and then made a stop at Victoria’s Jewelers for his and hers anniversary gifts,” Kari says. “We love the fact that so many of the stores in Baldwin Park are locally owned. We try to support local businesses as much as possible.”
Both Kari and Lander work from home, which allows some
flexibility to enjoy all the amenities Baldwin Park has to offer. For Lander, growing up his formative years in Central Florida fostered a love for the outdoors and fitness.
He is an avid runner and recently completed the Goofy Race and a Half Challenge at Disney, which involves running a 10K and half-mar-
athon on consecutive days.
“Baldwin Park is ideal for anyone interested in fitness — be it walking, running or biking,” Lander says. They also both work in the non-profit sector. Kari is human resource operations manager for the Association of American Med-
Courtesy photo
Lander and Kari Gold say Baldwin Park is the perfect community in which to raise their children, Henley, 5, and Maddox, 2.
ical Colleges, which represents medical schools, teaching hospitals, and academic and scientific societies. The AAMC also overseas the MCAT test for medical school admissions and residency matching.
Lander is the VP of advancement with Moishe House, an international non-profit and pluralistic Jewish initiative.
Moishe House’s mission is to increase involvement and engagement of Jewish young adults ages 22 to their early 30s in the Jewish faith and assist them creating their own communal faith-based community.
“At Moishe House, we strive to set a low barrier of entry to Jewish life,” Lander says. “One of our guiding principles is ‘Home as the Hub’ of the Jewish community, with an emphasis on peer-to-peer engagement. In the last several years, there is a resurgence of interest in religion and faith-based lifestyles. Moishe House provides a space for Jewish young adults to engage their faith and create their own communities.”
The Golds became Baldwin Park homeowners in 2019.
“We knew we wanted to make Central Florida our home, but there were many great areas to choose from,” Kari says. “In our search, we prioritized schools, safety and neighborhood character.
“Baldwin Park initially appealed to us for its walkability, open spaces and excellent amenities,” she says. “But when
we looked deeper, the character of Baldwin Park truly revealed itself a community unto itself within greater Orlando.”
The Gold home is adjacent to one of Baldwin Park’s several grassy mews. This was a huge selling point in their final decision on Baldwin Park, because they were looking to become first-time home-buyers while Kari was pregnant with their first child, Henley.
“When we first toured our future home, we saw kids playing out on the grass, parents strolling infants and residents walking dogs,” Lander says.
“There was an emphasis on outdoor activities, fresh air and interaction with neighbors. We knew immediately that Baldwin Park was our home.”
Another aspect of Baldwin Park they enjoy is the close proximity to Orlando’s worldclass theme parks.
“Our 5-year-old Henley just loves the theme parks,” Lander says. “And with all the great food options and first-class resort amenities, the theme parks are becoming more adult-friendly every day.”
“Our weekend mornings usually begin with the question to our 5-year-old, ‘What theme park should we hit today?’”
Kari says. “Disney’s Hollywood Studios is her current favorite, and her brother, Maddox, loves it, too. And we can’t wait for next spring and the grand opening of Universal’s Epic Universe.”
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AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Community Calendar
SATURDAY, FEB. 1
FADED KINGDOM
BEER FESTIVAL
Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, at Tactical Brewing Co., 4882 New Broad St. Faded Kingdom is a celebration of the Orlando Beer Scene. Tactical Brewing and Brewed Events have invited breweries from all over the country to join forces with local Orlando breweries to deliver a festival the amazing beer fans of Orlando deserve! Expect more than 50 breweries from outside of Orlando and another 20-plus from the Greater Orlando area.
FRIDAY, FEB. 7
FIRST FRIDAY
5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7. Stroll down New Broad Street for shopping, live music and even snag some dinner. Find the full vendor list by searching “BP Community Market Day” on Facebook.
SUNDAY, FEB. 9
OPENING DAY
SPRING SOFTBALL
9 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 9, at Blue Jacket Park, 2501 General Rees Ave. Come out to Blue Jacket Park for a full day of opening day games, food and fun. Follow the league on social media at @baldwinparksoftball for game updates.
THURSDAY, FEB. 13
ANNUAL CHARCUTERIE NIGHT OUT
Thursday, Feb. 13, at Grace Hopper Hall, 1913 Meeting Place. Hosted by The Brujas Table, his fun-filled night brings in more couples, friends, solo grazers — making this class grow
along with the friendships it brings together. Residents: Check your weekly newsletter for more details regarding this class and more resident exclusive events coming up.
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE MEETING
6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9, virtually. Because of the current high volume of Residential ARC applications, the
THURSDAY, FEB. 27
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE MEETING
6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, virtually. Because of the current high volume of Residential ARC applications, the number of applications accepted is being capped at 25 per meeting. Once this number is reached, subsequent applications will be held for the next scheduled ARC meeting. The ARC meets twice a month. More information can be found in your weekly newsletter.
FRIDAY, FEB. 28
FARE BACKYARD FOOD FARE
Enjoy a lovely evening in the park for the February Backyard Food Fare! Take chairs, blankets and toys for the kids. Why cook dinner when delicious food is right in your
Fall in love with February
BRIE BERNSTEL MULTIMEDIA & COMMUNITY COORDINATOR
You can’t think of the beginning of February without thinking First Friday! The February First Friday will take place beginning at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 7 right at the Village Center. These events have become a Baldwin Park staple and have a fun theme attached to each event. February’s theme is Game Night in honor of Super Bowl weekend! Follow The New Baldwin Park Community Market on Facebook for the full vendor lineup and more upcoming events. Baldwin Park is also home to a co-ed softball league, which is going on its fifth season! This league plays every Sunday in the spring and fall at Blue Jacket Park, and hosts a charity home-run derby each season, as well.
ANNUAL CHARCUTERIE NIGHT OUT
If you have lived in Baldwin Park these past few years, then you may already have heard about the annual Charcuterie Night out hosted by The Brujas Table! Year after year, this fun-filled night brings in more couples, friends, solo grazers — making this class grow along with the friendships it brings together.
The Brujas Table takes you through each step on how to create the perfect meat and
You don’t have to play ball to enjoy Sundays. There is always a game playing to watch, and it just might have you signing up for the next season! Follow the league on social media at @baldwinparksoftball for game updates.
Spend Valentine’s Day around town at one of Baldwin Park’s beautiful restaurants for a dazzling night. Baldwin Park’s walkability makes it so uniquely special and creates the perfect night roaming the streets, deciding where to have a drink next. Check out our social media at @ BaldwinParkOfficial to see the latest
cheese board. The instructor will teach you how to create the viral salami rose, place your accompaniments in an aesthetic way and even offer some pairing tips.
This is one of our favorite annual happenings around Baldwin Park — and one of the most delicious! Residents, check your weekly newsletter for more information and the link to purchase tickets. Visit BaldwinParkNetwork.com.
happenings around town + who is having special deals this V Day.
Last — but certainly not least — is our Backyard Food Fare! This lively foodie event takes place at Corrine Commons and features food vendors and food trucks from all around Orlando. This has grown into one of Baldwin Park’s largest recurring events, and it is easy to see why once you see the menus! Take a blanket or chair, and we will see you there! Residents: Check your weekly newsletter for full details about this event and all resident exclusive events hosted by your Residential Owners Association.
L A K E B A L D W I N C H U R C H
WHAT’S SELLING
DETAILS: The exquisite curb appeal leads you into the foyer of the home. To your right is a versatile room flooded with natural light. The gourmet kitchen features 42-inch shaker-style cherry cabinets, with plenty of storage plus an island with bar seating allowing for plenty of space for everyone. The first floor of the home features an open layout with ample space for relaxing and dining in the oversized family room/ dining area. A separate laundry room, half bathroom and storage cupboard are also located on the first floor.
5346 PENWAY DRIVE, ORLANDO
SOLD PRICE: $610,000
SOLD DATE: Dec. 6, 2024
BEDROOMS: Three
BATHROOMS: 2.5
SQUARE FEET: 1,673
SELLING AGENT: Emma Kaplan, Baldwin Park Realty LLC
BUYER AGENT: Emma Kaplan, Baldwin Park Realty LLC
DETAILS: This one-story David Weekley home in Baldwin Park features a large covered front porch. The open-concept kitchen has a nice island opened to the family room and is an entertainment heaven. The master includes a large bathroom featuring dual sinks, a big shower and a walking closet. The home features wood floors, 42-inch wood cabinets, granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances, volume ceilings and rear-alley entry to a big two-car garage with lots of storage space.
5408 PENWAY DRIVE, ORLANDO
SOLD PRICE: $600,000
SOLD DATE: Jan. 9, 2025
BEDROOMS: Three
BATHROOMS: Two
SQUARE FEET: 1,459
AGENT: Paul Benfield,
DETAILS: This home impresses with its bright, open layout enhanced by crown molding, recessed lighting, modern finishes and a dedicated downstairs office. The kitchen serves as the heart of the home and caters to the most discerning chef with stainless-steel appliances, white 48-inch cabinets, a granite-topped island and a convenient closet pantry. The backyard retreat is nothing short of impressive, highlighted by a sparkling pool with a calming water feature and spa, lush landscaping, a cozy lanai and artificial turf arranged around a tranquil lounge area.
3601
PARKLAND DRIVE, ORLANDO
SOLD PRICE: $1,040,000 SOLD DATE: Jan. 8, 2025
BEDROOMS: Three BATHROOMS: 2.5
FEET: 2,088
SELLING AGENT: Jeff Witter, RE/MAX Town & Country Realty BUYER AGENT: Agustine Grace, LPT Realty LLC
Baldwin Park notebook
ROA BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
BY STACEY FRYREAR
The following information is a glimpse of the ROA’s general updates for the month. A copy of the official November No Meeting Notice and official Dec. 10 Regular Meeting Minutes can be obtained on the Community Network, BaldwinParkNetwork.com.
The board accepted, appointed, denied and/or approved the following items/work:
n Approved the 2025 Events proposal as presented by The Coordinator/Tim Webber Events (Easter Egg Hunt and Mini Monster Bash). Included in the approval is that the ROA be listed as the primary sponsor/presenter; other sponsorship monies collected must be shared with the ROA; the ROA as the platinum sponsor/presenter is to be listed on the top of any signage/ flyers/circulars/etc.; and any participants must receive information 10 days before the event.
n Approved the Insurable Valuation Proposal as presented by Stone Building Solutions.
n Approved the Certified Pool Pros pool maintenance two-year proposal including a thirty-day out. Director Mr. Ford is to review the contract terms, meet with SMI and Certified Pool Pros to discuss pool closure options and report back to the board.
n Approved the backflow replacement at Grace Hopper as presented by Wayne Automatic.
n The board asked A/R/C Associates to bring back an estimated cost related to Cambridge Division 3 townhomes Widows Walks — Option 2.
COMPLETED ACTIONS
1. The October carpet cleaning at Enders and Grace Hopper was completed.
2. SMI maintenance replaced ceiling tiles that were stained during Hurricane Milton in the Grace Hopper Gathering room.
3. SMI obtained pool maintenance proposals for the upcoming year. Pool Troopers and Certified Pool Pros turned in proposals, and they are in the December Board Meeting Packet. NuWave Pools declined to provide a proposal.
4. The pole lights out at Enders, Grace Hopper and High Park pools have been repaired by All Phases Electric.
5. SMI maintenance replaced the door handle for the Grace Hopper men’s pool restroom door.
6. The Design Guideline Amendments approval from the city DET2024-10119 has been received. The amendment language has been incorporated into the Design Guidelines, uploaded to the Baldwin Park Network and provided to the members of the ARC.
7. At Enders Park playground the chain to the cross-pod bridge broke. SMI maintenance installed a new chain.
8. The wall clock in the Enders Park gym fell off the wall, and the glass face broke. SMI maintenance installed a new clock.
9. The 2025 coupons and assessment letter were mailed to all owners on Nov. 27, 2024.
10. The letter explaining the onetime 2025 insurance payment assessment due Feb. 1, 2025, was mailed on Nov. 22, 2024, to the appropriate townhome service areas (Division 5 Issa 28, Division 6 CH No. 1, Division 7 Live/Work, Division 8 CH No, 2 and Division 9 CH No. 3).
11. The Division 6 CH No. 1 townhome service area will realize an overall savings of about $700,000 in roof replacement costs due to the change in contractors. Tempest Roofing
will begin the remaining replacements in January 2025.
12. SMI maintenance repaired two GFI outlets in Corrine Commons.
13. The Holiday Tree and Holiday lighting was installed at Corrine Commons and Grace Hopper Hall by Jingle Bells.
14. The stump was removed in the CH No. 4 Mews, and plants were installed by BrightView Landscape Maintenance. The tree went down with the hurricanes.
15. Broken limbs (tree hangers) in the Elm Trees at Grace Hopper Hall were removed by BrightView Tree Care.
16. SMI ordered three additional gate readers for the pools to keep as attic stock. The pending order has been on backorder since July.
PENDING ACTIONS
1. Pressure-washing of the parks/ mews/facility center sidewalks was scheduled for the third week of December.
2. SMI is obtaining another proposal to replace all of the blinds in Grace Hopper Hall and Enders gathering room. DRS is providing proposals in addition to the proposals from Carpets & Blinds Beautiful.
3. SMI maintenance will install playground spin seats at Enders playground.
4. The leg extension machine at Grace Hopper fitness center is missing a cover that goes over the weights. The part has been ordered and will be installed during the next preventative maintenance visit to avoid an additional trip charge.
5. SMI maintenance replaced the outdoor light ballasts at the outside of the Grace Hopper fitness center upstairs and downstairs, but the light still won’t come on. All Phases Electric found they were full of water. The company is ordering new fixtures.
HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR OWNERS WILDLIFE IN STRUCTURES
The tree-lined streets of Baldwin Park offer shady canopies for residents to enjoy the outdoors and provide homes for amazing animals like songbirds, squirrels and even bats.
Bats provide great pest control. They are protected yearround from harm and cannot be evicted from buildings until after the end of the annual bat maternity season, between April 15 and Aug. 15.
Now is the time to evaluate your home for potential wildlife entry points and make necessary repairs. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission provided us with a comprehensive video addressing “How to Remove Bats from Buildings.” You can access at youtube. com/watch?v=IbaKnvc8sZA. Exterior Changes. Any exterior change to your home including but not limited to painting, replacing or adding gutters, roofs, windows, plant materials/sod/ trees, accessories, structural changes, etc., requires ARC approval. All applications can be found at baldwinparknetwork.com under ARC Applications. If you have questions, please call ARC Coordinator at (407) 740-5838 or email ARC@baldwinparkpoa.com. Continued on page 18
Baldwin Park notebook
TOWNHOME SERVICE AREA COMMITTEE
BY MELISSA PARKER
The Townhome Service Area Committee Dec. 19, 2024, meeting was canceled. A complete copy of previous official minutes can be obtained on the Community Network, BaldwinParkNetwork.com.
UPDATES
n Please remember to report any landscape, building or irrigation issues on Baldwin Park Solutions. Reporting items on Baldwin Park Solutions allows residents to share photos of the reported area(s) and receive real-time updates from management staff on corrective measures being taken. Baldwin Park Solutions can be accessed on the Baldwin Park Network.
n The Cambridge service area is receiving roof replacements. There are 26 buildings located within the Cambridge service area. 3MG Roofing is currently working off Juel Street. Fern Avenue is the next area to receive roof replacements. The roof-replacement project will be completed after Fern Avenue passes final inspection.
n Issa 22 Phase 2 Roof Replacements. Issa 22 is currently receiving roof replacements. G&A Certified Roofing North is working off Corrine Drive before heading to Upper Park Road. Residents located within the service area will receive more information as it becomes available.
n The Live/Work service area is currently receiving roof replacements for Phase One. The project is currently working on
1500/1510 Lake Baldwin Lane. Residents will receive updates as they become available. There are 11 roofs receiving new roofs and gutters during phase 11. Three buildings have been completed so far during this project.
n The City Homes No. 1 service area will be receiving roof replacements and new gutters. The association has a contract with Tempest Roofing. Tempest is working with the association and the city of Orlando to obtain all proper permitting. The project will start off Virginia Drive. The start date will be available soon. Residents will receive a notice prior to construction beginning on their building.
n New sod that was installed in December has been treated with a fungicide
n BrightView has continued to make multiple irrigation repairs throughout the townhome service areas. There have been many lines breaking because of large tree roots. Irrigation controllers also are being replaced because of old age and they no longer functioning. Any plants that have suffered from a lack of irrigation will be removed and replaced if they do not recover. BrightView also corrects any irrigation following the installation/replacement of plant material. BrightView also is working directly with HotWire on any irrigation breaks that occur because of the fiberoptic project. BrightView also walks the buildings receiving roof replacements with the roofing contractor following a roof’s completion. Roofing contractors are responsible for any damaged landscaping during roof replacement projects.
HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR TOWNHOME OWNERS
HEATING SAFETY TIPS
Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths. Half of home heating equipment fires are reported during the months of December, January and February. Some simple steps can prevent most heating-related fires from happening.
n Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from heating equipment, such as the furnace, fireplace, wood stove or portable space heater.
n Have a 3-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
n Never use your oven to heat your home.
n Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
n Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
n Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
n Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
n Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
n Test smoke alarms at least once a month.
Continued from page 16
6. The key fob reader at the High Park pool gate nearest the large pavilion needs repair. The parts have been ordered and Sciens Building Solutions will install them once they come in.
7. Two more proposals are needed for the 2026 Reserve Study Update Full Site Inspection.
8. A/R/C to oversee the roof replacement project at Enders facility center and garage as approved by the board in June. A/R/C went out to bid, and the work was awarded to Tempest Roofing. The contract was reviewed by Legal and has been executed. Work will be scheduled for February 2025. The gathering room has been blocked off as the building and pool will need to be closed for this work.
9. There are four more replacement umbrellas for the High Park pool that need to be ordered.
10. SMI maintenance has replaced the slings for pool lounge chairs and dining chairs at High Park. It is working on replacing the ones at Grace Hopper and Enders. More slings may need to be ordered.
11. SMI put on a “Ugly Sweater” contest for owners and their animals Dec. 15 at Enders Park.
12. Beerology was scheduled for Dec. 18, 2024, at Grace Hopper Hall.
13. The Backyard Food Fare was scheduled for Dec. 20, 2024.
14. The first Health Fair, the first Food Truck Rally and the first “Botany Books Lately” book and plant swap are scheduled in January 2025.
BALDWIN PARK COMMERCIAL OWNERS ASSOCIATION INC.
BY BILL PATTERSON
February is the month for love and friendship. Take that special someone to one of Baldwin Park’s amazing restaurants. Head to all our shops for all your winter decorating needs.
THINGS TO KNOW
n Tree Trimming. The annual tree trimming for the parking lots will start this month. Please keep an eye out for the Brightview landscaping trucks and avoid parking near where they are working.
n Landscaping Upgrades. Keep an eye out for several landscaping and parking lot upgrades. Many projects are planned in the early part of the year.
n Back-in Parking. Please refrain from back-in parking throughout the parking lots. This causes damage to the plants and the
irrigation heads by hitting them, as well as by the exhaust blowing directly on the plants.
n Other Projects. Several of the dumpster enclosures located in the five main parking lots are in the process of being rebuilt. Some of the parking lots are scheduled for repaving later this year. Please keep an eye out for notifications of when this will happen. During the project, certain lots will be closed for several days.
n Trash Talk. The dumpsters in the commercial lots are for use of commercial tenants and apartment residents. Apartment residents are encouraged to throw their trash all the way down the chute on the side. When the door is closed, it will compact. Commercial tenants are not to use the trash chute for discarding trash. Instead, they are to go inside the enclosure and throw directly in the dumpster. Apartment residents are welcome
PET OF THE MONTH
Meet Sprout, the tiny bundle of joy! At just 13 pounds, this friendly Shorkie is all about spreading happiness. He loves people just as much as he loves pup cups, and his name fits him perfectly — he’s always “sprouting” with excitement to greet everyone he meets. Sprout makes every day brighter with his wagging tail and infectious charm!
If you have a pet you would like to see as Pet of the Week in the weekly newsletter, along with being submitted for Pet of the Month in the magazine, email a headshot to Suz Tapy at stapy@baldwinparkpoa.com with a little information about your furry family member.
to do this as well, if the chute is blocked. Please do not leave trash bags in front of or around the dumpster; this attracts bugs and rodents. If the dumpster is not working, please go to one of the other parking lot dumpsters and contact the office so OUC can be notified for repairs.
n Towing. All nine parking lots in the Village Center are privately owned by the Commercial Association. The owners have adopted rules and regulations for these parking lots. Any vehicle not following the rules is subject to towing at the owner’s expense. This includes: out of date tags/ stickers, inoperable vehicles, double parking and abandoned vehicles. The parking lots are for residents and guests of the apartments and employees and customers of the commercial businesses.
n ARC. An architectural review is required for all exterior — and some interior — changes, includ-
ing roof replacement, painting, signs and landscaping changes. For the city to approve permits, the Commercial Owners Association must sign off on the project. All corresponding applications can be located on the Baldwin Park Network under Commercial Owners Association and Commercial Architectural Review Committee. For questions and application submission, please feel free to email Bill at BPatterson@BaldwinParkPOA.com.
n Bulk Pick-up. The dumpsters in the commercial lots are meant for trash bags and small items only. For all large items, please use OUC bulk pick-up. Stuffing these items in the dumpster or leaving them causes multiple issues, including dumpster break down and rodents. Visit orlando. gov/Trash-Recycling for more information and to schedule future pick-ups.
FEBRUARY BITS AND BOBS
A Legacy of Leading Care
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• 12 surgical specialties
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• Winter Park’s only boutique mother and baby care facility Advanced Specialty Care
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FEBRUARY BITS AND BOBS
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