Baldwin Park Living February 2023

BALDWIN PARK LIVING

FEBRUARY 2023

C lient Testimonial

“We had such a wonderful experience with Kimberley! From start to finish, she was kind, helpful, considerate, and thorough. She knows the real estate market very well, and truly loves what she does! She listened to our criteria and helped us to find the perfect home for our family. I highly recommend Kimberley if you are in the market to sell or purchase a home. You will be glad you did!”

-Lauren Forney

Top Realtor in Baldwin Park since 2015

Orlando HOT 100 Realtors since 2019

Baldwin Park Resident for over 18 years

Ranked in Top Producer Magazine since 2015

Keller Williams Winter Park Luxury Division Member Gold Key Certified

Orlando 5 Star Professional Realtor by Orlando Style Magazine since 2017

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

“I’m here to help YOU!”

Top Baldwin Park Realtor since 2016 Keller Williams #1 Individual Agent 2016, 2019-20

1637 LAKE BALDWIN LANE. 3 bedroom | 2.5 bath Lovely courtyard

BALDWIN PARK LIVING

FEBRUARY 2023

Editor and Publisher Michael Eng, meng@orangeobserver.com

EDITORIAL

Design Editor — Jessica Eng, jeng@orangeobserver.com News Editor — Annabelle Sikes, asikes@orangeobserver.com

Contributors — Brie Bernstel and Will Campbell

ADVERTISING

Sales Manager Cyndi Gustafson, cgustafson@orangeobserver.com

PRODUCTION

Graphic Designer — Andrea Rukstalis, arukstalis@orangeobserver.com

CONTACT

To submit story ideas, calendar listings or have your event considered for coverage, contact Annabelle Sikes at asikes@orangeobserver.com. For advertising inquiries, call (407) 656-2121.

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

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. The Dec. 13, 2022, meeting was canceled because of Hurricane Ian. Therefore, a copy of the official Nov. 15, 2022, Meeting Minutes can be obtained on the Community Network (BaldwinParkNetwork. com) once acknowledged by the Board of Directors during the Jan. 24 meeting.

COMPLETED ACTIONS

1. Replaced server in association office.

2. Enders’ patio wood and screen repairs were completed.

3. The new surveillance cameras at Enders were installed.

4. Poinsettias were installed at Grace Hopper.

5. The holiday tree and tree lighting were installed and removed at Corrine Commons.

6. The holiday décor was installed at Grace Hopper and removed.

7. The igniter and air filter for the pool heater at Grace Hopper was replaced.

8. Maintenance installed new

water spigots at Grace Hopper pool building in an effort to save money vs. hiring a plumber. The plumber wanted to break out the walls to replace, and maintenance was able to complete it without breaking out the walls.

9. The right-side elevation of the High Park restroom wall was repainted (faux paint) by DRS because of peeling of paint caused by stickers that were applied to the wall.

10. The columns at High Park large pavilion were cleaned by DRS because of excessive chalk art. The chalk when used on the paint cannot be completely removed because it soaks into the paint.

PENDING ACTIONS

1. Hiring of additional maintenance was approved for the 2023 budget.

2. Mailed notice to members related to the adoption of the basketball equipment policy and change to Exhibit C. This is currently being reviewed by the City of Orlando TDRC for approval.

3. AC systems replacement at Grace Hopper Hall downstairs was scheduled for Jan. 13, 2023.

4. Wear items were found during

the preventative maintenance of the fitness equipment. A proposal was approved, but the work won’t happen until the January 2023. This is in an effort to save money on a service call. The items that are wearing still work.

5. Additional proposal obtained for “modernization” work required by code for the Grace Hopper elevator. Must be completed by Dec. 31, 2023.

6. The women’s pool restroom floor at Grace Hopper painting will be scheduled.

7. The men’s pool restroom floor at Enders needs touch-up painting scheduled.

8. Proposals for picnic tables at Enders playground and High Park facility were deferred to 2023 by the board. Adopted as part of the 2023 budget.

9. Pressure-washing, caulking and touch-up painting at Grace Hopper Hall and Enders facility centers were deferred to 2023 by the board. Adopted as part of the 2023 budget.

10. Pressure-washing, caulking and painting of the pergolas at Parkland Quadrangle and Longview were deferred to 2023 by the board. Adopted as part of the 2023 budget.

11. Pressure-washing and painting of the bollard lighting in

BALDWIN PARK COMMERCIAL OWNERS ASSOCIATION INC.

Love is in the air around Baldwin Park! You will also fall in love with all the restaurants Baldwin Park has to offer. Many of our shops have beautiful seasonal themed displays, so stop in and support your local businesses.

THINGS TO KNOW

n Baldwin Park Solutions. Commercial owners, tenants and managers can submit work requests through our new Baldwin Park Solutions system. It is located on the Baldwin Park Network. Simply click “Resident

Home” at the top right, and you will find the link in the middle of the page. If you do not have a Baldwin Park Network account, you can request one from that page as well. Go to baldwinparknetwork.com to get started.

BY BILL PATTERSON

n Trash Talk. The dumpsters in the commercial lots are meant for trash bags and small items only. For all large items, please use OUC bulk pick-up. Stuffing these items in the dumpster or leaving them causes multiple issues, including dumpster breakdown and rodents. Visit orlando.gov/Trash-Recycling for more information and to schedule future pick-ups.

HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR OWNERS

Do your driveway and sidewalks look dirty?

Cleaning these types of surfaces not only improves the overall look of your property but also helps to prevent them from becoming potential hazards, such as a fall risk to those visiting your property. Routine pressure-washing/cleaning ensures these surfaces are not slick and slippery from the growth of mold or mildew which is so common in wet or humid conditions.

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.

CH No. 2 Mews were deferred to 2023 by the board. Adopted as part of the 2023 budget.

12. Pressure-washing and painting of the knee walls and benches in CH No. 2 and CH No. 3 Mews were deferred to 2023 by the board. Adopted as part of the 2023 budget.

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

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TOWNHOME SERVICE AREA COMMITTEE MEETING

BY MELISSA PARKER

The December 2022 Townhome Service Area Committee meeting was canceled because of a lack of quorum and business to discuss. A copy of previous official minutes can be obtained on the Community Network, BaldwinParkNetwork.com.

UPDATES

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

n Roof replacements are occurring in the Issa 22 service area. A notice will be left on the townhome’s front door a week prior to the projected start date confirming the roof replacement is beginning. Make sure to remove all items located in the backyard/private zone area. The roofing contractor nor the association will be held responsible

Continued from opposite page

ing will be tagged for towing at owner’s expense.

n ARC 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. For the city to approve permits, the Com-

HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR TOWNHOME OWNERS

It’s a brand-new year, and the weather has been so nice out. Many residents are either making improvements to their homes or possibly planning to change something in the near future. Here is information regarding how you can plan to make any changes to the exterior of your townhome or courtyard/private zone area:

n If you want to make any exterior changes to doors, windows, hardware, courtyard/private zone, etc., you will need to obtain approval from the Architectural Review Committee, and the applications are available on the Baldwin Park Network, BaldwinParkNetwork.com.

n If you are repairing or replacing a door, window,

for these items.

Here is the current roof replacement schedule provided by R.F. Lusa & Sons: 901-907 Fern Avenue: In progress.

n Roof replacements are coming to the Issa 28 service area (not all addresses will have roof replacements this year; some addresses are listed to be replaced in 2024 per the Reserve Study). A notice will be left on the townhome’s front door a week prior to the projected start date confirming the roof

plant species etc., with the same exact one, there is no need for ARC approval — only if you want to replace with something different (such as different hardware, a different mutton pattern, more efficient window glass or different door or different type of planets/ layout pattern).

n If you are looking for existing plans (blueprints) for your townhome, you can obtain a copy by visiting the city of Orlando’s website — orlando.gov/Our-Government/ Records-and-Documents/ Request-a-Public-Record — and requesting a copy. The association office does not keep copies within the office. The city of Orlando will have a copy in long-term storage if something is available for your property.

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

n New sod that was installed in December/January has been treated with a fungicide.

n BrightView has started the annual trimming of crepe myrtles within the service areas.

n BrightView will schedule the annual tree trimming for the canopy trees once the TSAC has reviewed the proposals at their January 2023 meeting.

n Per DRS Inc. here is the Townhome painting schedule for January 2023: Cambridge — Lake Baldwin Lane

replacement is beginning. Make sure to remove all items located in the backyard/private zone area, and that may be attached to the roof (e.g., satellite dishes or cameras). The roofing contractor nor the association will be held responsible for these items. The buildings to receive roof replacements within Issa 28 starting at the end of February/beginning of March 2023:

4450-4470 Twinview Lane

4451-4475 Twinview Lane

4479-4499 Twinview Lane

n Per DRS Inc. here is the Townhome maintenance schedule for December/January: Issa 28

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

mercial 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 Parking Lot Guidelines. The Commercial Owners Association has clarified and adopted new

parking lot restrictions and rules effective Oct. 10, 2022. These rules govern all the commercial owned parking lots, including the nine parking lots in the Village Center and the lot at the Neighborhood Business District off Lake Baldwin Lane. Village Center parking areas shall be used by the employees and customers of any businesses in the Village Center and employees or tenants of the Village Center residential apartments. The Neighborhood Business District parking lot only

should be used only by owners, tenants and patrons of the buildings there. No overnight parking is permitted without prior written approval from the association. You can find a full breakdown of the parking lot uses restrictions and rule at the following path on the Baldwin Park Network: Home/Resident Home/Association Information/Commercial Owners Association/COA OVERVIEW & DOCUMENTS/COA Declaration & Supplements.

Baldwin Park notebook

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Help keep Baldwin Park a great-looking community

The Baldwin Park Residential Owners Association Board of Directors and the on-site Sentry Management staff wish to keep Baldwin Park a great looking community into 2023 and beyond. To promote that, you will notice that throughout the coming year, reminders such as these will be sent out periodically to keep residents better informed. There are new residents that may not be aware of some of these items, and others that have lived here for a while that can look at these as refreshers.

Covenant inspections are done by units, with Units 9 and 10 scheduled for the month of February. Please note that unforeseen events can occur that make it necessary to modify the schedule.

Based on a recent review of the properties within Baldwin Park,

a number of violations were noted that are due to unapproved changes being made to homes and properties. This means that changes were made without the required approval from the Architectural Review Committee per the Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions for Baldwin Park Residential Properties.

One of the main reasons for these reminders is because each and every one of these issues is a potential violation per the covenants. To continue to maintain a high standard, we want to be certain that everyone is aware of the requirements surrounding the necessary steps that need to be taken when a change is being made to your property. All change requests, even likefor-like, must go through the Ar-

chitectural Review Committee. Change requests will be reviewed by the ARC and, upon approval, the requested change can then be made. These are not new rules; they have been in place since the inception of Baldwin Park in 2002.

When in doubt, ask! Chances are, it will save you a great deal of time and money. If you have already made a change without approval, you will still need to submit it through the ARC.

A complete copy of the Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions, Baldwin Park Design Guidelines along with the Landscape Guidelines for Baldwin Park Residential Properties can be found on the Baldwin Park Network, baldwinparknetwork.com, under Association Information, Residential Owners Association for your review.

Questions regarding ARC? Email ARC@baldwinparkpoa. com. Questions regarding Covenants? Email Covenants@baldwinparkpoa.com.

COMMON UNAPPROVED CHANGE VIOLATIONS

n Landscape changes (additions, deletions, replacements of plants/trees that have died off, etc.)

n Street trees (removals)

n Addition of AC/propane tanks/pool equipment/water softeners or the removal of the screening materials around these items

n Removals/addition of porch railings

n Removal/change of house numbers

n Addition of pavers/landscape rock

n Addition of gutters

n Removal/addition of fences

n Change of exterior light fixtures or door hardware

n Painting of house

COMMON VIOLATIONS NOT REQUIRING ARC APPROVAL

n Trash cans not being properly stored

n Exterior cleaning (lead walks, stairs, siding, etc.)

RELATIONSHIP RESTORATION

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Baldwin Park resident Colette

Fehr is using a negative experience in her life to help improve others.

Before her divorce in 2005, Fehr and her first husband began marriage counseling, a decision she says may have ended the relationship once and for all.

“When I had kids and our mar-

riage hit some really difficult places, we sought out marriage counseling, and it was actually more harmful than helpful,” she says. “We had such a bad experience in counseling, and in retrospect, I actually think had we had good help, and I’m not blaming the demise of the marriage on the therapist, but had we had better help, I think the marriage could have been saved.”

Instead of dwelling on the past, Fehr has chosen to move forward with her own counseling private practice where she works exclusively with couples from her office in Baldwin Park.

PRIVATE PRACTICE

Fehr opened her counseling practice in 2013 in Winter Park before moving it to Maitland. During the start of the pandemic, she moved to Baldwin Park in 2019.

“I loved it so much, really, truly, from the moment we moved here,” she says of Baldwin Park. “I love the combination of being so well located in relation to Winter Park but also downtown. It’s such a suburban neighborhood feel, and I really have gotten to know my neighbors and their families. ... Very quickly, I knew I wanted to move my office to Baldwin but it was all about waiting to see if an office would become available in the area.”

In 2020, Fehr opened her office in Baldwin Park.

Fehr is ICEEFT-certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy, which is the gold standard in evidenced-based treatment for couples, as well as EMDRIA-Certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, which is used to treat trauma and relational loss.

Fehr offers an integrative approach to couples therapy that draws from attachment theory, neurobiology and developmental psychology. Her work is based on specialized training in multiple methodologies that include: EFT, the Gottman Method, the Developmental Model, Encounter Centered Couples Therapy and Internal Family Systems.

The private practice offers couples counseling, premarital counseling, discernment counseling and closure counseling.

“I always knew that I wanted to try and help people preserve their relationships,” she says. “I’m not trying to get people to save their marriage if they don’t want to. There’s a million reasons relationships end, and sometimes, that’s really OK. As a society, we need to get away from thinking a relationship ending is a failure.”

Although a majority of her clients are older than 35, Fehr also sees younger couples and even has seen people in their 70s.

EMOTIONAL EXPERIENCE

Even though it’s sad anytime a family or a marriage doesn’t work out, it really was the impetus for her career, Fehr says.

Baldwin Park resident Colette Fehr helps couples through tough times through her local counseling business.

Annabelle Sikes

Baldwin Park resident Colette Fehr opened her couples counseling business in the area in 2020.

She has now been happily married to her husband, Steve, for seven years.

When she compares her negative therapy experience to what she has learned through the years, Fehr does not believe the person she saw was adequately trained in working with couples.

“I really, truly feel honored that people trust me with their relationship because you’re joining people,” she says. “It is something I take very, very seriously and hold with the greatest respect. Your primary romantic relationship as an adult is the most important relationship in your life, and we know that human beings are wired for attachment, and we need to be closely connected to other people to feel safe and secure in the world.”

Fehr knows maintaining the balance between work and life is important. Although she says it has gotten easier over the years, she utilizes resources such as groups with other therapists, where they talk, share and process, as well as works with another therapist with whom she consults regularly to talk about her cases.

Self-care is also essential to the

balance. Outside of work, Fehr enjoys writing, exploring acting as a hobby, trying new restaurants, traveling and spending time with her family.

COUNSELOR CREATION

Fehr, 49, was born in New York City and grew up in Rye, a small suburb outside Manhattan.

She attended an all-girls Catholic school before pursuing a college degree in English and History at Tulane University, where she met her first husband. They married shortly after graduating college and moved to Orlando. They have two children: Charlotte Jones, now 21, and Curran Jones, now 19.

After the divorce, Fehr decided to go back to graduate school and pursue a master’s degree in counseling at Rollins College.

Before her bad experience with therapy, Fehr had never considered it as a career choice. However, looking back, she remembers playing the role of family counselor during her own parent’s divorce.

“I know I’ve always been drawn to people, connecting with people, understanding what makes people tick,” she says. “I just had never re-

ally thought about it. I think if it had been on my radar, I probably would have pursued it earlier.”

Having an entrepreneurial spirit for the majority of her life, Fehr says she likes the flexibility of having her own practice and doing her own thing. She makes her own appointments, answers inquiries, has developed and learned business skills, and holds a high standard of customer service inside and outside of the practice to maintain the quality of the work.

Although Fehr would like to complete goals such as developing as a writer and possibly writing a book, as well as expanding on her acting capabilities, she also says she sees herself doing her counseling work forever.

“There aren’t many pathways where women as they age are valued more, but with counseling, I can continue to do the job as long as I live, as long as I still have the mental capabilities, to keep my mind sharp and help as many people as I can,” she says. “I love it. It’s never boring. It’s heartwarming, and there’s way more good to it than bad. That’s something you don’t see enough of in the world, and I feel lucky to be doing it.”

COLETTE J. FEHR COUNSELING SERVICES

1555 Lake Baldwin Lane, Suite B WEBSITE: colettecounseling.com

WE ARE BALDWIN PARK!

The ever-changing face of Baldwin Park

WILL CAMPBELL PRESIDENT BALDWIN

Hello neighbors! We’ve already made it through the first month of the year. How is everyone doing on their resolutions — or intentions if you read my article from last month? While I haven’t quite adhered to mine because of friends in town and some work stress, it’s all about the baby steps and making that incremental progress to get where you want to be. Don’t let the month changing bring you down. You’ve got this!

Speaking of progress: Our own neighborhood is seeing some change and progress, as well. After Ian wreaked havoc on the area of Harbor Park by the docks, the city jumped into action. Not only did they shore up the shoreline with rocks to prevent future eroding, but also they fixed the sidewalks and the docks to ensure we will have access to them for years to come. Kudos to the city of Orlando for helping to keep Baldwin Park looking pristine!

Another change you may have noticed is the name and look of what was Provisions & Buzz, now Blue Jacket’s Gastropub. With a whole new food and drink menu, as well as new décor inside and out, the restaurant is looking to the build a name of its own, separate from those of its past.

Just across the street where a sandwich store once resided,

we’re getting another great addition to the neighborhood with Green Beat. If you haven’t been, you’re definitely going to want to check it out. It’s essentially a healthy version of a build-yourown-bowl place, with super fresh ingredients and tons of options. As someone who works from home, I am beyond excited for a healthier option coming to the bubble.

Just down the street on Meeting Place next to Bigote, you probably spied some papered windows and signage about a new store called Apiary. Apiary is a home décor brand started by two sisters, Shannon and Jenna, who learned from their grandmothers that the true start of connection and storytelling starts with family at the table. I’m excited to see their unique aesthetic that I’ve followed on Instagram translate into a storefront and for all that they will add to the neighborhood. Another thing that I am super excited for — and I know many of you are as well — is that First Fridays are officially coming back! The team that has been producing the successful Baldwin Park Community Market is bringing them back starting from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3. The event will have local vendors, food, music and more. I know this is something we’ve all missed since they went away

in 2020 because of COVID so I hope to see you all out there supporting!

Then, of course, there is the long awaited brick-and-mortar location for Camille, the amazing chef-to-guest dinner experience with a modern approach to Vietnamese food. Having been to the pop-up over at East End Market, I can tell you this is a meal you will not want to miss when they open. I’m already checking their social media accounts daily looking for the first opportunity to book at the new location. While multi-course meals like this can be intimidating for some, I can assure you every dish that comes out from Chef Tung is a little piece of joy. The cocktail program and wine pairings are spot-on, as well. Can you tell I really like food?

Just as new businesses and events come into the neighborhood, we’ve also lost a couple along the way. The Drip Bar, located next to Dance 360 and Paper Goat Post, has closed up shop, and so has Pedego Bikes, next to The Wildflower. While it’s sad to see any business leave, it opens up the doors (literally) for new businesses to join the fold. I always love seeing new businesses move in and bring something new to Downtown Baldwin Park — especially one that complements the already-amazing tapestry we have here in our little bubble. With so many options, what’s something you’d want to see move into one of those spaces?

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

PARK JOINT COMMITTEE

I always love seeing new businesses move in and bring something new to Downtown Baldwin Park — especially one that complements the already-amazing tapestry we have here in our little bubble.

How to show your community some love!

There is a lot to love about Baldwin Park — and even more ways to show your love for your community. Residents are always asking how they can get more involved or show their appreciation, and there is always a way for everyone to get involved.

n Unable to do anything physical or maybe your schedule just doesn’t allow for evening activities? You always can write about a fellow neighbor that you think is doing something spectacular. Whether it is via our social media, Baldwin Park Living Magazine or through even bigger news outlets, we love showcasing the amazing residents that make our home so unique and interesting. You can either send details to Annabelle Sikes — asikes@ orangeobserver.com — news editor for Baldwin Park Living, or Brie Bernstel, your community multimedia coordinator, MediaComm@BaldwinParkPOA.com.

BRIE BERNSTEL MULTIMEDIA & COMMUNITY COORDINATOR

as paying a local business a visit when you normally would have walked on by. New businesses are popping up all over, and they are all patiently awaiting your arrival. Green Beats, Illume Dental, the reinvented Blue Jacket Grille (just to name a few) have opened in the last six months, and rumor has it even more are about to! Check our social media for full details and updates.

n Put your leadership skills to work and gather a handful of neighbors to host a mini road or park clean-up! Whistle while you work, help your community, meet some new friends, and make your community a better place. Does it get any more fulfilling than that? Baldwin Park is already a well-maintained community, but sometimes after 5K races or major events, there is a little extra left over. Follow main events through the Baldwin Park Network Calendar and check your weekly newsletter for race details.

n Showing your community some love also can be as simple

n Speaking of Baldwin Park businesses: Maybe you think you visit your local businesses as frequently as your schedule will allow, next time you pop in snag an extra gift card, no matter the amount, for someone special in your life. Maybe you really put your local delivery driver to work this holiday season and don’t know how to thank them. Maybe your landscapers really kicked butt last year, or you noticed someone new just moved in and they look like they could use a fun night out. Either way, a gift card is the kind gesture that everyone can appreciate, especially your #LocalShops.

n Lastly, you can show your community appreciation by sharing us on social media! Share our Facebook page so potential visitors can see all of the amazing things we have planned; tag us on Instagram, so we can share your shenanigans with our followers who love seeing our neighborhood flourish; or participate in a community survey so we can continue to grow Baldwin Park into the best community it can be! Getting involved has never been more important or easier. See you soon in #BeautifulBaldwinPark!

IF YOU WANT TO GIVE YOUR HOUSE PERSONALITY, IT MIGHT AS WELL BE A COLORFUL ONE. THAT’S HOW WE ROLL.

COURTNEY DYER AND TREY MILLER

My boyfriend and I have lived in Baldwin Park for two years. We met in college. He took me on a first date to the local rodeo and it was absolutely not my vibe — not romantic at all — and very dirty. It was a bad first date! I didn’t speak to him again for over a year, and then we met again at a university event. We’ve been together five years now. We graduated college, he moved to Jacksonville, and I moved to Tallahassee for law school, and then we both moved to Baldwin Park and love it here.

MEET CUTES

Baldwin Park couples share stories of how they met.

MICHAEL AND MARILYN WEAVER

I met my husband Michael after I resolved to go out on “one date” in 2011. When we met online, I didn’t like him at first, because he was so nice. Really, it was because he was nerdy and not my usual type. My brother dared me to go out with him. We ended up falling in love over time and blended our families, we were both single parents of an elementary schooler. Interestingly, he had lived in Baldwin Park for a time before we met, so we probably passed each other in the grocery store or on the street. We’ve lived in Baldwin Park since we married.

MICHAEL AND RACHEL LYNCH

Rachel and I met in 2007 in Pensacola, when I was an attorney with law firm Levin Papantonio. Rachel was working as a legal assistant in the pharmaceutical litigation department. It was love at first sight for us both. We moved to Orlando together in 2008. We purchased a home in Baldwin Park in 2015 and married in 2018 in Key West. I run my own law firm, The Michael Brady Lynch Firm, from my home in Baldwin, specializing in products liability and personal injury. Rachel is a senior manager at Charles Schwab in Maitland. We are expecting our first baby, Ava Christina, on March 9.

ANNABELLE SIKES | NEWS EDITOR

ALEX LOPEZ AND VIVIAN CAO

My boyfriend and I met in high school, and he actually tried to steal my purse, so that was my first impression of him. We were in the same math class, sat next to each other, and we didn’t know each other. One day after class ended, we both got up, and while he was hooking his backpack on, he accidentally hooked it onto my purse the same time I was about to put my purse on my shoulder. He didn’t notice and started walking away with my purse! I did not know who this was at all — didn’t know his name or anything. He started walking away, and I had to awkwardly follow behind with my hand still on my purse for five seconds before going, “Uh, excuse me.” He turned around and was absolutely mortified at the situation. He started apologizing and gave me my purse back. I thought he was really weird after that. It turns out at the time, he thought I was cool and cute — and was working up the courage to talk to me but didn’t know how. We didn’t talk after that and didn’t talk until we realized we had art together. We laughed about the situation afterward and became best friends for a year. Now we’re on six years of dating and have a dog together!

KYLE AND KYLEE JONES

RANDY AND EMILY BALLETTA

My husband and I live in and incorporated Baldwin Park in our wedding, having lawn games in crescent park and a large welcome dinner at Grace Hopper Hall. We met in college at the snack table while on a retreat. We share a mutual love of Capri Suns LOL!

LUIS MORALES AND ROBERTA NORONHA

I have co-owned The Bridal Finery in Winter Park for five years. My husband is a local baker and pastry chef. He is known in Baldwin Park for his charcuterie boards, private parties and the occasional Friday pop-up at Baldwin Realty. We have lived in Baldwin Park since 2012. We have two daughters, 16 and 14, who are both attendees of Winter Park High School.

KYLE AND KATHLEEN KLINGER

My husband Kyle and I met in Orlando at the end of 2019. Our first date was in Baldwin Park, where I lived. Our second and many subsequent dates were at Tactical Brewing for the Thursday night Run Club. He moved in, and we later moved to another apartment in Baldwin Park. Just before Christmas last year, he proposed on the smaller dock on Lake Baldwin. The larger one with the gazebo was too crowded at that moment! He then surprised me with an engagement party with our dear friends at Wildflower. We were married in September. You can catch us around with our two greyhounds walking the trails and lakes. We’ve cherished our time in this wonderful neighborhood.

My husband and I are a modern-day Tinder success story. We went on one date, and we were both sold. We got married in March and are expecting our first baby in February. The one thing that makes us stand out is we basically have the same name. We are Kyle and Kylee Jones. Not only do we have the same name basically, we both work in the private aviation industry. We live in Baldwin Park and we love the community.

Comfort food

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Baldwin Park resident Diane Hancock was driving down Glenridge Road when she first learned about Lasagna Love.

Hancock was listening to an episode of National Public Radio in her car. Two lasagna chefs, known as a Lasagna Papa and a Lasagna Mama, were being interviewed about their volunteer work with Lasagna Love.

“I thought, ‘You know what? I can do that,’” she says. “The pandemic just started, and I had left Disney to do freelance work. But I thought that if there was freelance work out there, then I can’t take that away from people who are trying to feed their families. A lot of my family members or friends were suffering through the pandemic, and we were doing OK. So I said, ‘I’m going to stop taking freelance work, and that’s going to give me the time to be able to do this.’”

LAYERS OF LOVE

Lasagna Love is a global nonprofit and grassroots movement that “aims to positively impact communities by connecting neighbors with neighbors through homemade meal delivery,” according to the organization’s website.

Lasagna Love seeks to eliminate stigmas associated with asking for help when it’s needed most.

The mission: Feed families, spread kindness and strengthen communities.

“This really started with the pandemic, and I knew people were food insecure,” Hancock says. “We deliver no-contact, so there wasn’t any risk to me health-wise. … To be able to help someone who is in need and in such an easy, easy way, it’s like there’s no reason I can’t do that. If we all help a little, it matters a lot.”

Those who wish to become lasagna chefs can customize their profile

Lasagna Love is a global nonprofit and grassroots movement that aims to positively impact communities by connecting neighbors with neighbors through homemade meal delivery.

to include how often they would like to make deliveries, how far they are willing to deliver and even what type of lasagna they are willing to cook.

Although there is not one set recipe for lasagna, there are recipes available on the organization’s website that the chefs can utilize if they wish.

Some chefs choose to accommodate people with allergies or dietary restrictions with different recipes such as lasagnas that are vegan, vegetarian, chicken or even no dairy. Some chefs even make alternatives such as chicken pot pie for those who do not like lasagna.

“The main objective is to feed the family,” Hancock says. “All that matters is that you fed that family. Yes, I live in Baldwin Park; I have a lot of privilege. For me to give back

should be something that I do. I feel very much that I have a responsibility to give back.”

Those who wish to make a request for a lasagna can fill out a form on the nonprofit’s website or even request a lasagna for someone else in need.

After creating a profile, lasagna chefs receive an email from the organization matching them with a recipient.

Hancock says she then texts the recipient and introduces herself before asking about allergies and dietary restrictions. She schedules a time and day for the delivery and creates a small care package with notes such as safety precautions relating to food handling, a list of the ingredients in the lasagna and the lasagna itself.

She texts the recipient to let them know she’s on her way, knocks on the

Annabelle Sikes Baldwin Park resident Diane Hancock and her husband Steve have made over 70 lasagnas for those in need.

door and leaves the lasagna before texting again to let the family know it’s there.

“It’s important for people to feel like we really want to do this for them,” Hancock says. “We get as much out of it as they do. It’s just one family helping another family.”

COMMUNITY CARE TAKER

Hancock has now been delivering lasagnas for more than two years with the help of her husband, Steve.

The couple typically delivers one lasagna a week and currently has made 77 meals.

The Hancocks choose to deliver within a five mile radius of Baldwin Park, although Diane Hancock shared she was surprised when she first started with the organization to see how big the need was even in the small area. She has never not had a match.

Because of the contactless delivery, Diane Hancock says she has only met two of her recipients.

Although she often receives “thank yous” from recipients, she

says, humbly, “It’s just one mama helping another mama.”

Her first lasagna delivery was to a single mom who wanted her son to have a home-cooked meal. The mother gave Diane Hancock a “thank you” card with $10 in it and asked her to pay it forward to someone else in need.

Diane Hancock believes the no-contact delivery helps people feel more at ease and more comfortable.

“It’s about their dignity,” she says. “They don’t have to look me in the face and thank me and express their gratitude. Really, they shouldn’t have to do that. For a lot of people, it’s very hard for them to ask for help, and then to have to face someone, I think for some, it can make it that much harder.”

The Hancocks say a lot of the recipients discover Lasagna Love by word by mouth. Often, the couple will deliver in the same neighborhood or area code.

Lasagna Love periodically reaches out to different nonprofits in the area, church groups, Girl Scouts, shares the word on NextDoor and

has even recruited a couple of chefs to get them involved and to make them aware of their services.

“We never know what’s on the other side of the door,” she says. “It definitely puts you in check for being judgmental of other people. We’ve delivered to neighborhoods that you know the people are in financial need. We’ve delivered to people with disabilities. We’ve delivered in neighborhoods that require a gate code, and that might make you think ‘Hm?’ but you never know what’s on the other side of the door.”

The Hancocks says that it’s really that simple — as a community, neighbors should be helping neighbors.

“We all have a responsibility to help our neighbors out, and if I was in need, which you never know and could happen at any time, I have friends, family and neighbors who I know would come help me,” Diane Hancock says. “It’s important to stay mindful. We can all pay it forward.”

LASAGNA LOVE

WEBSITE: lasagnalove.org

EMAIL: info@lasagnalove.org

FACEBOOK: facebook.com/ WeAreLasagnaLove

Community Calendar AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 1

NEW WALKING GROUP!

VALENTINE’S DAY CHARCUTERIE NIGHT OUT

6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 13, at Enders Park Gathering Room. Join host

The Brujas Table as they walk you through how to build the perfect charcuterie board — all from scratch! You will receive one wooden board to take home full of your favorite meats, cheeses and accompaniments, plus the knowledge of how to build your own board that will be sure to impress all of your friends and family. Each reservation is $48 or $75 per couple. This class will be capped at 25 people, so check your weekly newsletter for the ticket link and sign up before they sell out!

Join your community dance instructor Page for a comfortable walk around Lake Baldwin once a week. The group will meet Feb 1, 8, 15 and 22 down by the lake, and all are welcome. You may turn back at any point and do not have to commit to the whole walk. If you have any questions, please email Page at pperrigan26@gmail. com. Don’t forget some water and your walking shoes!

SATURDAY, FEB. 4

16TH ANNUAL ORLANDO OUT OF THE DARKNESS COMMUNITY WALK

Saturday, Feb. 4, at Blue Jacket Park. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., and the walk starts at 9 a.m. In the last 11 years, AFSP American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has grown from a grassroots network of researchers and volunteers into a national movement of chapters across all 50 states. AFSP is also the largest private funder of suicide prevention research. It is consistently ranked one of the best charities for mental health, and it is powered by everyday heroes such as you, who walk, volunteer, donate and sponsor. If you would like to donate, visit afsp. org/orlando and search “Vicki Long” then click “donate.” You can register through their website. There is no cost to walk/run.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 8

ROTARY CLUB OF THE PARKS

You can reach out for additional information to monitcat@miteran. com.

THURSDAY, FEB. 9

ROA ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE

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

SATURDAY, FEB. 11

BALDWIN PARK COMMUNITY MARKET DAY

9 a.. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, on New Broad Street. Enjoy goodies from more than 30 local vendors while enjoying the beautiful weather. Find out more information by visiting BPCommunityMarket.com.

MONDAY, FEB. 13

ROA COVENANTS HEARING

6:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 13, at Grace Hopper Hall. Check your weekly newsletter for updates.

TUESDAY, FEB. 14

COA ARC, COVENANTS AND QUARTERLY BOARD MEETING

8:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14, virtually. ARC/Covenants Meetings scheduled the second and fourth Tuesday of every month. Board of Directors meet quarterly. All information for all meetings can also be found on the Baldwin Park Network, along with the link to join the meeting.

THURSDAY, FEB. 16

TOWNHOME SERVICE AREA COMMITTEE MEETING

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

SATURDAY, FEB. 18

HEAD FOR THE CURE 5K

9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, at Harbor Park, 4953 New Broad St. This event raises funds, awareness and hope for the local brain tumor community. Funds raised benefit Orlando Health Cancer Institute, Dragon Master Foundation and The Brain Tumor Trials Collaborative. Sign up or find out more information about the race at headforthecure.org.

MONDAY, FEB. 20

BALDWIN PARK SOCIAL CLUB

6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 20, at Cork & Plate, 1784 Jake St., Orlando. Search “Baldwin Park Social Club” to join the private Facebook group and to RSVP. The group is for anyone single, married, in a relationship or just not looking! Feel free to come and meet new neighbors and friends.

THURSDAY, FEB. 23

ROA ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE

Meets at 6:30 p.m. twice monthly 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. More information can be found in your weekly newsletter.

FRIDAY, FEB. 24

THE BACKYARD FOOD FARE

5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 24, at Corrine Commons. This free-toattend event will be the first of this year’s food fares that take place monthly from January through May for residents and their guests. Local food vendors such as Parlor Kitchen, Fui Yo Mexicana, Lobos Coffee Roasters + Cholo Dogs will take care of all your dinner needs! Why cook when delicious food will be right in your backyard? Email Brie at mediacomm@baldwinparkpoa. com with any questions! You do not have to pre-register for this event. Please bring your own blanket or chair.

SATURDAY, FEB. 25

SIXTH ANNUAL INUA 5K

7:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at Blue Jacket Park. Support Inua Partners in Hope. Gather together to enjoy food, fun, fellowship and awards after the race. In the last five years, this event has raised more than $143,000 to support Inua Partners in Hope, a program designed to break the cycle of poverty and move orphaned and vulnerable youth in Kenya from dependency to self-sufficiency. The race begins at 7:30 a.m., and the 5K award ceremony begins at 8:30 a.m. Free kids run is also available beginning at 9 a.m. Visit inuapartners.org/inua5k.

TUESDAY, FEB. 28

JOINT COMMITTEE

BOARD MEETING

5:45 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28, virtually. All information for the meeting can also be found on the Baldwin Park Network.

TUESDAY, FEB. 28

ROA BOARD MEETING

6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28, virtually. All information for the meeting can be found on the Baldwin Park Network.

ONGOING

ADULT SOFTBALL LEAGUE

This league is beginning in mid-February at the Blue Jacket Park softball field. It is for anyone looking to have some friendly competition at 2 p.m. Sundays. Email marcus@ moffattre.com to sign up.

FIRST FRIDAY RETURNS

First Fridays are back, thanks to Ace Productions. The kick-off event will be from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, and will feature local vendors, shopping and music!

Check your weekly newsletter for more information.

Jenni Sloan Padgett McCormick Tiffany Grindstaff

Cintron Team Elim & Teresa Rhonda Chesmore

Linda Winter Cody Judge

Lauren Kuharske

Matias Cardozo Dee Morgan