Baldwin Park Living April 2023

BALDWIN PARK LIVING

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

Key Certified

5 Star Professional Realtor by Orlando Style Magazine since 2017

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CONTENTS

APRIL 2023

BAKING BLISS

MIXING MAGIC

Camilla Cardens, 11, mixes up her own batches of happiness.

8 BALDWIN PARK NOTEBOOK

DEPARTMENTS 16

Read about recent decisions made by community leaders.

10 WE ARE BALDWIN PARK! Spring had sprung, and Baldwin is the place to be!

12 COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Find your community fun in our monthly calendar.

14 FRESH CONCEPT

Greenbeat has expanded with a new Baldwin location.

18 PLAY BALL!

Baldwin residents launch new adult softball league.

21 BEAUTIFUL BALDWIN

The fun never ends when you live in Baldwin Park!

BALDWIN PARK LIVING

APRIL 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. A copy of the official Feb. 28, 2023, meeting minutes can be obtained on the Community Network (BaldwinParkNetwork.com).

The board approved the following items/work:

n An Implementation Committee was formed to assist with the Hotwire Bulk Internet work.

n The board approved the required elevator modernization work for Grace Hopper Hall that must be completed per code by the end of 2023.

n The board approved all but the property policy insurance renewals for 2023. The property renewal was schedule to be brought back to the March 28 meeting.

n The board approved abating trashcan violation actions until March 28, 2023.

n The board approved Mr. Burnett to work with Sentry Management to explore options related to trash-can storage. Mr. Burnett will report back to the board with recommendations at the March 2023 board meeting.

n The board approved picnic tables for High Park large pavilion and Ender’s playground.

The board approved the following work:

n Pressure wash, caulk and touch up paint exterior of Enders

n Pressure wash, caulk and touch up paint exterior of Grace Hopper Hall

n Pressure wash, caulk and touch up paint exterior of High Park

n Pressure wash, caulk and paint gazebos and Longview and Parkland

n Clean and paint CH No. 2 mews bollard lights

n Clean and paint CH No. 2 and CH No. 3 mews knee walls and benches

n Clean and paint Division 1 parks/mews (not recreation center Division 2 parks/areas) benches, bike racks and sign post

n Clean Enders Facility Center roof

UPDATES

COMPLETED ACTIONS

1. Retrieved information on “O” drive lost during the server update at association office.

2. Hired additional maintenance technician.

3. The front door at Grace Hopper was painted by SMI maintenance staff.

4. Auto fill at Grace Hopper pool was replaced by pool contractor.

5. Railing in stairwell at Grace Hopper was painted by SMI maintenance staff.

6. The women’s pool restroom floor at Grace Hopper was painted by SMI maintenance staff.

7. A door at Grace Hopper gym was making a horrible horn noise. SMI maintenance staff was able to adjust the closer and oil the hinges.

8. The men’s pool restroom floor at Enders was painted by SMI maintenance staff.

9. Someone took the playground rule sign out of the ground. SMI maintenance staff reinstalled it.

10. Light fixture in Ender’s fitness center was replaced.

11. Light fixture at High Park large

pavilion was very loose. It was secured by SMI maintenance staff.

12. One of the gates at High Park pool was not closing properly. SMI maintenance staff replaced the hinges.

13. Pool light fixtures at High Park and Enders were loose. Spies Pool was able to fix those.

14. There was a problem with the cameras at High Park and Grace Hopper from a lightning hit. Grace Hopper was found to have a bad PoE injector, and that was replaced. An underground cable and some bad connectors were found, and the wireless access point was bad. This has been fixed, and all cameras are online.

15. Fire extinguishers were inspected and tagged at all locations.

16. Association office phone systems kept dropping calls. Coordinated meeting with Atlantic Communications and Spectrum. Together, they figured out the issue. Spectrum’s equipment and the phones are working properly now.

PENDING ACTIONS

1. Mailing of notice to members related to the adoption of the basketball equipment policy and change to Exhibit C was approved by the City of Orlando TDRC. The required notice to members is being mailed. The amendment will take effect 30 days after the mailing.

2. Step risers in stairwell at Grace Hopper need to be reglued. SMI maintenance staff was scheduled to work on this from Feb. 19 to 25.

3. SmartWatch will provide a price to extend two of the new cameras at Enders pool for a better view.

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 year-round 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. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission provided us with a comprehensive video addressing “How to Remove Bats from Buildings.” You can access by visiting youtube.com/ watch?v=IbaKnvc8sZA.

4. Proposals related to 2023 reserve expenditures per the 2023 Reserve Study Update:

a. Replacing all shutters at Grace Hopper Hall

b. Repaint all interior walls, doors, trim, etc. at Grace Hopper Hall

c. Replace shower tile at Enders pool with tile like the tile at Grace Hopper pool

d. Asphalt overlay 1-inch Ender’s parking lot

e. City Homes No. 3 Mews fountain basin resurfacing

f. City Homes No. 3 Mews fountain equipment

g. Ardsdale Mews brick wall repair

h. Baskin Mews brick wall repair

I. Union Mews brick wall repair

j. Replace wood picnic table at Union Park Replace wood pergola at Union Park place wood pergola at Parkland Square

TOWNHOME SERVICE AREA COMMITTEE MEETING

BY MELISSA PARKER

The following information is a glimpse of the business that the Townhome Service Area Committee addressed in the Feb. 16, 2023, meeting. A complete copy of the official minutes can be obtained on the Community Network, BaldwinParkNetwork. com, once approved at the April 20, 2023, meeting (the March 16 TSAC Meeting was canceled).

n The TSAC moved to approve a drain installation at 4474 Twinview Lane.

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 Issa 22 roof replacement project is completed. Management met with R.F. Lusa & Sons and A/R/C Associates Inc. on March 9, 2023, to conduct final inspections on the remaining buildings off Fern Avenue.

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 replacement is beginning. Make sure to remove all items located in the backyard/ private zone area, as well as any 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 are the following:

HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR TOWNHOME OWNERS

Tile floors on exterior porches or balconies require grout sealing to prevent water damage. The grout may need touched up from time to time as well. Likewise, re-caulk areas around windows and doors where caulking has shrunk because of sun or weather.

Water Emergency! See how to shut off the water at the youtu. be/a_P44FBxgMY. You’ll find a black lid in the front or rear yard. It helps to have the right tool — Water Valve Shut-Off Tool — available at any hardware store for about $5 to $20.

n 4450-4470 Twinview Lane: week of March 20, 2023

n 4451-4475 Twinview Lane: TBD

n 4479-4499 Twinview Lane: TBD

n 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 February/March has been treated with a fungicide.

n BrightView is continuing the annual trimming of crepe myrtles within the service areas.

n BrightView Tree Care has completed the annual tree trimming of the hardwoods within the townhomes service areas. BrightView will come back to address

BILL PATTERSON

any trees they had to “skip” due to not being able to access the tree for trimming (e.g. a car was parked in the way).

n Per DRS Inc., here is the Townhome painting schedule for April 2023: Cambridge: March 27 to April 7: 1001-1007 Juel Street; April 10 to 21: 1009-1017 Juel Street.

n Per DRS Inc., here is the Townhome maintenance schedule for February/March: Cambridge: Meeting Place, Upper Park Road.

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

Do not get caught in those April showers! As we come out of the dry season, watch out for those afternoon storms. If you need to duck in out of the rain, check out one of our many fantastic food and beverage options in the Village Center.

THINGS TO KNOW

n Annual Tree Trimming. The annual tree trimming for the Village Center and the Neighborhood Business District was completed in mid-March. The crepe myrtles are trimmed every three years, and this is the year. There are two ways that crepe myrtles typically get trimmed. The most common is to completely trimmed them down, which is meant to keep them the same size once they grow back. The second, and the

way the COA trims, is a V-trim. V-trim encourages growth in order to establish a canopy.

n Dumpster Enclosure Refresh. In the past couple of months, the dumpster enclosures in the Village Center have received some minor repairs and a fresh coat of paint.

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.

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/unloading 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 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 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.

BALDWIN PARK COMMERCIAL OWNERS ASSOCIATION INC. BY

WE ARE BALDWIN PARK!

Spring has sprung in Baldwin Park!

WILL CAMPBELL PRESIDENT BALDWIN PARK JOINT COMMITTEE

Springtime in Baldwin Park is truly a sight to behold. With the return of consistently warmer weather and longer days, the neighborhood comes alive with vibrant colors, bustling activity and endless possibilities for adventure and exploration. Whether you are a longtime resident or a newcomer to the area, there is no better time to discover all that our neighborhood has to offer than now.

One of the most striking aspects of our neighborhood in the springtime is the abundance of blooming flowers and trees. Take a stroll through the neighborhood, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views at every turn. There are plenty of parks and nature trails to explore, where you can witness firsthand the stunning display of flora and fauna that characterizes this time of year. Of course, I would also be remiss if I didn’t touch on the downfall of all those pretty plants and flowers: pollen and the impact it has on our allergies!

In addition to the natural beauty of our neighborhood, there are also plenty of events and activities that take place during the spring season. From neighborhood markets to First Fridays, there’s always something happening in Baldwin Park. Be sure to check out the calendar in this magazine as well as your weekly Baldwin Park e-blasts for all of the upcoming events. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @ visitbaldwinpark, where we’re always posting about what’s happening in the bubble.

One of the best ways to expe -

rience all that our neighborhood has to offer is by attending community events. Whether it’s a movie in the park or a merchant run parking lot party, these events are a great way to connect with your neighbors and learn more about the culture of Baldwin Park. You may even discover a new hobby or interest along the way. For those who are more active, there are plenty of opportunities to get outside and enjoy the warmer weather. Our neighborhood has numerous parks with walking and biking trails, as well as tennis courts and baseball fields. There’s even a new Baldwin Park Softball league for the adults. It’s a great opportunity to meet and get to know more of your neighbors and get a little fitness in. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try your hand at kayaking or the sailing club on Lake Baldwin. If you’re like me and are looking for a more leisurely way to enjoy the outdoors, grab some snacks and some wine and have a picnic in one of our beautiful parks.

Of course, no neighborhood would be complete without a thriving culinary scene, and ours is no exception. From the cafes to fine dining establishments, there’s no shortage of delicious food to be found in Baldwin Park. Now is a great opportunity to take advantage of the tables outside before it gets disgustingly hot outside. Many of our local restaurants take advantage of the abundance of fresh, seasonal produce available during the spring months, so it’s a great time to indulge in some farm-to-table cuisine. If you’re in the mood for something sweet,

you’re covered with a couple great spots where you can treat yourself to a tasty dessert.

Another great way to get involved in the community is by volunteering. There are plenty of local organizations and charities that are always looking for volunteers to help with events and programs. Not only is volunteering a great way to give back to the community, but it’s also a wonderful opportunity to meet new people and make connections. With the end of the school year quickly closing in on us, now is a great time to look for volunteer activities for the younger ones. I spent part of almost every summer volunteering at various charities and organizations, and I wholeheartedly believe it instills something into a person that makes them want to do more and be better. Hmmm, maybe that’s how I ended up here!

As you can see, our neighborhood truly comes alive during the springtime. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or a social butterfly, there’s something for everyone here. So why not take advantage of the beautiful weather and all the opportunities for fun and adventure that await?

I’ve said it once and I’ll say it thousands of more times: Baldwin Park is truly a special place. With its residents from all walks of life, an abundance of natural beauty, a diverse range of activities, and tight-knit community, it’s no wonder that so many of us choose to call this place home.

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

Stephenie Poris, MD Stephenie Poris, MD

THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Community Calendar AROUND

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1

WALKING GROUP

BALDWIN PARK

EASTER EGG

HUNT

10 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 1. Baldwin Park Easter Egg Hunt is returning this year and will be hoppier than ever! This family friendly event has expanded over the last 10 years from 500 eggs being filled to more than 10,000! The hunt is segmented into three sessions grouped by age, so everyone gets a fair chance at some goodies. 0-2 hunt starts at 10:30 a.m., 3-5 hunt starts at 10:30 a.m. and ages

6+ can begin their hunt at 10:30 a.m. Don’t forget to bring your baskets! After the hunt, more festivities begin in the center of the park including face-painters, balloon twisters, music and photos with the Easter Bunny! If you have any questions about this event, please email Adam at adam@timwebberevents.com.

Meets Wednesdays, March 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, at Lake Baldwin. Join community dance instructor Page for a walk around Lake Baldwin once a week. If you have any questions, please email Page at pperrigan26@gmail.com. Don’t forget some water and your walking shoes!

MONDAY, APRIL 3

MOVIE NIGHT IN THE PARK

6:30 p.m. Monday, April 3, in front of Grace Hopper Hall, 1913 Meeting Place. Please bring a blanket or chair. Popcorn and refreshments will be provided. Email Brie Bernstel at MediaComm@BaldwinParkPOA.com with any questions.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5

WALKING CLUB

Meets at 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays, April 5, 12, 19 and 26, at Lake Baldwin. Join community dance instructor Page for a walk around Lake Baldwin once a week. 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!

FRIDAY, APRIL 7

FIRST FRIDAY

5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, April 7.

First Fridays are back thanks to Ace Productions. The event features local vendors, shopping and music. Check your weekly newsletter for more information and follow “BP Community Market” on Facebook for up-to-date vendor announcements.

SATURDAY, APRIL 8

WOUNDED WARFIGHTER LONG SAILOR 5K/10K

7:50 a.m. Saturday, April 8, at Blue Jacket Park. Join other participants for a run around the former “Grinder” to honor Orlando’s rich military heritage and support the nation’s wounded servicemen and women. More information can be found in your weekly newsletter or by visiting bit.ly/3neMqgm.

THURSDAY, APRIL 13

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, APRIL 15

SEMIANNUAL

SPRING PORCH SALE

9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 15. We are thrilled to welcome back BrightView to the Spring Porch Sale, where they will be handing out free plants in front of Grace Hopper Hall! Don’t forget to email Suz Tapy with your name, address and items to be added to the Porch Sale Map at STapy@BaldwinParkPOA.com. Find full details in the resident weekly newsletter or head over to our event page.

COMMUNITY MARKET DAY

9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 15, on New Broad Street. Enjoy goodies from more than 60 local vendors. For more, visit BPCommunityMarket.com.

MONDAY, APRIL 17

ROA COVENANTS HEARING

6:30 p.m. Monday, April 17, at Grace Hopper Hall. More information can be found on the Baldwin Park Network.

THURSDAY, APRIL 20 TOWNHOME SERVICE AREA COMMITTEE

Meets at 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, APRIL 22

Earth Day Shred Event

10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, April 22, at Baldwin Park Elementary. Kathy and Savanna Williams, from Team Williams, will host this event. A free mobile shred truck will be set up at 1750 Common Way Road. Avoid becoming a victim of identity theft by having old, sensitive documents destroyed.

4C 5K

8 a.m. Saturday, April 22, at Harbor Park, 4990 New Broad St., Orlando. Join Community Coordinated Care for Children Inc. for its inaugural 5K Fun Run/Walk in support of its mission to improve the quality of life for Central Florida’s economically disadvantaged young children and their families enrolled in 4C’s early learning programs. Proceeds from the event will support comprehensive services to children ages birth through 5, so they develop the foundational skills needed to enter kindergarten ready for school and beyond. More information can be found in your weekly newsletter or by visiting runsignup.com/Race/FL/Orlando/4C5KRunWalk.

TUESDAY, APRIL 25

JOINT COMMITTEE BOARD MEETING

5:45 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 25, virtually. All information for the meeting can also be found on the Baldwin Park Network.

ROA BOARD MEETING

6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 25, virtually. Call-in information can be found on the Baldwin Park Network. Announcements will be made in the weekly eblast if a closed meeting for attorney/client discussions to occur prior to the regular meeting.

THURSDAY, APRIL 27

ROA ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE

Meets at 6:30 p.m. twice monthly virtually. Because of the high volume of applications, the number of applications accepted is capped at 25 per meeting. Once this number is reached, subsequent applications will be held for the next scheduled meeting. More information can be found in your weekly newsletter.

TASTE OF BALDWIN PARK

6 p.m. Thursday, April 27. This event offers something for everyone! Foodies and wine lovers: Bring your friends or make it a romantic date night out. Sip and savor your way through Baldwin Park’s Best Night Out under the stars while enjoying great music and a gorgeous lakeside venue. Sponsorship, vendor volunteer information contact Events@BeBestEvent.com.

FRIDAY, APRIL 28

BACKYARD FOOD FARE

5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, April 28, at Corrine Commons. This free-to-attend event will be the first of this year’s food fares take place monthly from January though May for residents and their guests. Email Brie at mediacomm@baldwinparkpoa. com with any questions.

Closer to nature

GREENBEAT

4851 New Broad St., Baldwin Park

WEBSITE: green-beat.com

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Greenbeat has opened its newest location in downtown Baldwin Park.

Greenbeat, an eatery devoted to the idea that healthy, vibrant and flavorsome food should be accessible to everyone, has three other locations that each serve a slightly different fare based on each community’s individual needs.

The restaurant, which opened its first location in 2016, has partnered with numerous local farms, suppliers and artisans to bring the most vibrant, seasonal and healthy ingredients possible.

The Baldwin Park location offers a variety of menu options such as signature and custom bowls as well as fresh fruit smoothies. Ingredients available include chopped kale, organic quinoa, fresh avocado, roasted beets, fire roasted corn, spicy broccoli, ceviche shrimp, watermelon ahi tuna and roasted chicken.

Greenbeat owner David Garibyan says Baldwin Park is the perfect location for a new store, because the customers at the downtown Orlando location buzzed about a potential location in the area. When the opportunity presented itself, the company did not hesitate.

Overall, Garibyan says he hopes Greenbeat can become an important part of the community.

“We hope to inspire people to eat healthy/healthier and fresh food that is nearly unprocessed,” he says. “We like to call it a food that is closer to its primal state or

in other words food that is closer to nature.”

The new location hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony Tuesday, Feb. 14.

Greenbeat officials say customers should not hesitate to send in comments, suggestions and ideas,; the company tries to fit each Greenbeat to the community’s needs instead of having a universal menu across all the locations.

According to its website, the business was “created out of passion for great food and desire to unify the best in our surroundings, focused on crafting meals with a unique point of view backed by the vibrancy of nature, we have looked around us and discovered beauty that is both exciting and pristine hence we would like to share it with you.”

Greenbeat is devoted to the idea that healthy, vibrant and flavorsome food should be accessible to everyone.

Annabelle Sikes

INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE WITH A LOYAL PARTNER

Itty-bitty Crocker

“She has always been very independent, and as she got older, she wanted to do more and more things on her own,” Silvia Cardenas says. “Even though I would not bake, she would ask me if she could do it and experiment in the kitchen. She has always just been drawn to it. She loves it.”

Camilla is self-taught and learned to bake from watching videos, reading baking books that her mother bought for her from the bookstore, and from her grandma.

Silvia Cardenas says although Camilla and her grandmother are both good bakers, they have different styles.

“Camilla likes to go very fast,” Silvia Cardenas says, laughing. “At the end, what actually happens is Camilla does everything and my mother-in-law is helping clean-up.”

BUSINESS BACKGROUND

One of the only times Silvia Cardenas will join her daughter in baking is around the holidays.

She says the two make Christmas cookies together and deliver them to neighbors.

Silvia Cardenas says Camilla is always making new things for the family to try and even hosts small baking competitions with her friends. The young girls copy a recipe or make their own before bribing their siblings to try the sweets.

One of Camilla’s earliest memories of baking was around that time when she posted her first video of her baking carrot cupcakes on YouTube.

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Eleven-year-old Camilla Cardenas’ dream is to become a baker and own her own brick-and-mortar bakery.

The young Baldwin Park resident first opened her online store, Camilla’s Bakery, when she was only 8 years old.

“I asked my mom to help me create my own YouTube channel so that I could bake on it,” she says. “I think everybody really liked that recipe. I posted it, because I was selling them, and it was really popular. I still watch the video. Now that I look back at the videos, it’s kind of funny, because I mispronounce some things. I didn’t really know that much when I was younger, but it was still really fun.”

BAKING BEGINNINGS

Camilla’s mother, Silvia Cardenas, says she has never been a huge fan of the kitchen, but her daughter has been baking even before she decided to start her own business.

Silvia Cardenas also says the family has had to set rules around baking. She says she lets Camilla bake whenever she wants and the family will always try what she makes, but they will then throw away the leftovers. She says this stems from the effect she saw on the family’s health when consuming desserts and sweets every day — especially when being stuck inside during the pandemic.

Camilla’s favorite part about baking is measuring all of the ingredients and mixing them together, but her least favorite part is watching the items bake, because of the time it takes.

One of her favorite things she baked was an enormous hamburger cake.

“The patty was cake, and I used candy to make the lettuce,” she says. “I shaped the bun with cake, too, and I remember my grandma helping me and us making it togeth-

Courtesy photos

Eleven-year-old Camilla Cardenas is a baking prodigy to her friends, family and neighbors located in Baldwin Park.

er. We even made the cheese out of fondue. It took me like half of the day to make.”

Some of Camilla’s more popular items include the carrot cupcakes and Oreo truffles. She sells mostly to people she knows.

TIME CONSTRAINTS

Camilla has not been making videos for her YouTube channel lately because of her heavy school load and multiple extracurricular activities. She plays tennis, participates in cheerleading, plays piano and even sings in a rock band with her friends. She also loves to act.

Although she has a busy schedule, she says her biggest goal and love has not changed.

“There’s really nothing I want to do or be more than a baker,” she says.

Silvia Cardenas says it has been amazing for her to see her daughter find something she loves to do at such a young age.

“At the beginning, I thought maybe it would just be something that she liked or wanted to do in her free time, but I can see how passionate

she is about it,” she says. “We have tried to expose her to many other things, but it’s true what she says about not seeing herself doing anything she loves as much as baking. I can just see if you let her pick what she would like to do, she would be in the kitchen baking.”

Silvia Cardenas has suggested Camilla to possibly pursue business school, so she can have options and knowledge on the baking business she hopes to open.

The mother says she had an interview with a chef from Publix Aprons Cooking School, where she explained to him she was looking for baking classes for her daughter, but all she could find was basic classes Camilla would not enjoy.

“He told me that unfortunately because of her age, it would be a novelty for any company to have baking classes and let her participate, because she is so young and could hurt herself without someone watching her,” Silvia Cardenas says. “He suggested to me that she can participate in online classes — if I am watching her, it would be my responsibility. He said when Camilla is around 14 years old she will be

able to get into more adult baking programs.”

Silvia Cardenas signed Camilla up for her first adult baking class online, which Camilla says was a challenge and different than what she is typically used to in the kitchen. Instead of decorating cookies and cakes, the students made elevated desserts with items from scratch.

Silvia Cardenas says she attended the classes with Camilla and was lost after only a few minutes, but Camilla did everything and followed the class even though she was the only child.

“She would be a bit shy and ask me to ask questions for her,” Silvia Cardenas says. “I could see then that she was learning. Sometimes when she tries new recipes, of course, like anything in life, she would make mistakes and everything would be bad in the end. … I could see it was upsetting for her, but I could also see she was learning what worked and what did not. She would start over and try again.”

Camilla says she hopes to continue to learn and that she can share her love of baking with the world.

SOFTBALL STARTUP

Marcus Moffatt launched recently Baldwin Park’s co-ed softball league, which plays Sundays at Blue Jacket Park.

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Baldwin Park now has its own adult softball league. The co-ed league, which is open to anyone over age 18 no matter the skill level, already has more than 70 people, even though it started only a few months ago.

The league is independent of any neighborhood associations.

Organizer and local resident Marcus Moffatt says he got the idea to start the league. He coaches T-ball and baseball, and noticed nobody else was using the softball field located at Blue Jacket Park.

“I started asking some other dads and coaches in the community if they wanted to play, and it was clear that there was a huge need,” Moffatt says. “Our community (is what inspired him to start the league). Baldwin Park is such a great community. We have almost everything else, but we needed an adult softball league. When I asked around, the energy and excitement to join was very overwhelming. It gave me a real sense of pride in our community.”

LEAGUE FORMATION

Although Moffatt hadn’t played softball in years, he always loved baseball.

Moffatt shared both of his daughters are continuing to play and learn to understand baseball.

“They play baseball, and there are not a lot of girls in baseball,” he says. “I wanted to introduce them to softball and allow them to see more of the game to understand it. I also want them to understand that softball can be intertwined with girls and boys — just like baseball.”

Moffatt says softball is a great sport, because all skill levels can play and be involved — something that is not true of all sports.

“I wanted everyone to be able to play and have fun,” he says. “We have players (who) played competitively in college and we have players (who) just bought their first glove before our first game. It’s really great to be walking in Baldwin Park on a Tuesday and randomly see those players that were just introduced (or reintroduced) to the game practicing for Sunday. People are out there to have fun, but you can see they are competitive and do care. It’s a family community, and I wanted not only a softball player, but their spouse who might have never played want to join in

on the fun. The code of conduct is very clear that we are out here to have fun and be neighborly with one another.”

The teams are pretty full for the spring season, with 15 to 17 members per team.

In the fall, Moffatt says he would like to have six to eight teams. He says there is a fine line between having enough people on each team for some to miss each week and having too many on a team. The league is working on finding that balance this spring season.

Moffatt says forming the softball league is not as easy as just meeting on a field. It actually takes a lot of organizing compared to other sports in terms of insurance, liability, renting the field and more.

He says it has been quite a process to secure the field. The league has to rent the field from the city and also pay for insurance each day played. This costs about $125 plus tax per three-hour time slot.

“I am going to sponsor the rent-

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Courtesy photo

The new co-ed softball league is open to anyone ages 18 and older — no matter the skill level.

SPRING DATES

WHEN: From 2-5 p.m. April 16, April 30, May 7 and May 21

WHERE: Blue Jacket Park, Field 3

INFORMATION: Email Marcus Moffatt at marcus@moffattre.com

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ing of the field for the first spring season, as we work out the direction of this,” Moffatt says. “I am asking that everyone donate at least $25. This money will be put toward the fall season to keep this going. One hundred percent of these donations will go toward the fall season rental, insurance, balls, etc. This is a donation to keep the league going; it is not mandatory. It’s pretty simple: The more money we collect, the more Sundays we can rent the field for the fall season.”

Moffatt says members should bring their own gloves and any softballs, helmets, bats or equipment in their possession.

MUCH MORE THAN A GAME

Moffatt already has met many great people in the community through the league.

“Our team came together as we are mainly parents of kids that are in the same grades and classes at school,” he says. “All the kids and

spouses come to watch and cheer us on each Sunday, so it’s much more than a game. It’s a community we are building. It’s the reason we moved back to Baldwin Park. I wanted this softball league to represent our community and so far it really is.”

Resident Nick Kikuchi says he decided to join the softball league, because he grew up playing baseball. His children have started playing at the North Orlando Kiwanis Little League.

“It has been so fun seeing them play and getting to coach them,” he says. “Marcus, whom I help coach a T-ball team with, brought up the idea of starting an adult softball league, and I thought it was a great idea. I was all-in from the very beginning. As we grew closer to the start, we talked with other people in the neighborhood, and almost everyone I talked with was excited to play.”

He says his favorite part about the league is it brings out neighbors and families for a fun time so they can get to know one another

and spend time together.

“It really is a gift to live in a neighborhood where others are so eager to be in a community together,” he says. “It has been so fun to see people from the neighborhood and also to have our families supporting us from the stands. The kids also have a great time playing games in the park and having popsicles while watching.”

In the future, Moffatt says his goal for the league is to continue to grow it in as many ways as possible.

“More people, more teams, more equipment, more sponsors, more games,” he says.

Moffatt says he is encouraging locals to recruit friends or family members to join the teams. In addition, players can choose to be the main contact on the team, as an unofficial coach, or volunteer to help the league with anything else it may need as things unfold.

Finally, Moffatt says he is looking for local businesses that would like to contribute or get involved in the league in any way. Anyone interested can reach out to him directly.

The perfect spring in Baldwin Park!

Spring has officially sprung, and Baldwin Park is in full bloom! Flowers brighten up every corner and constant activities keep the streets buzzin’ almost as much as the bees. From the annual Easter Egg Hunt, movie nights in the park and foodie events right on New Broad Street, your April is about to be jam-packed!

Start April off on the right “hop” by attending the annual Easter Egg Hunt! This event has grown into one of the best Easter celebrations in Orlando — with tons of activities for the whole family. Get photos with the Easter bunny, scavenge for eggs, get your face painted or just jump around to the deejay! This event is always a crowd favorite and this year should be no exception!

Just a few days later, on Monday April 3, there will be another movie in the park! Bring your friends and family for an easy night out in your backyard. The movie begins at 6:30 p.m., and this month there will be even more free snacks to enjoy during the show! More information can be found in your weekly resident newsletter.

After the movie, you will have all week to either make room for new treasures or to box up the items you’ve been meaning to get rid of for the last 10 years. The Semiannual Spring Porch Sale is the perfect occasion to do a little bit of both. Community “flea markets” will be set up at Corrine Commons and Enders Park along with plenty of participating home (map showing homes can be

found in your weekly newsletter or via the network) around the community. Get there early so you can snag a free plant from Brightview in front of Grace Hopper Hall!

Treat yourself at the Taste of Baldwin Park event happening April 27 right on New Broad Street. This recurring event is ideal for date nights, a solo night out or the perfect way to celebrate someone special in your life with gifted tickets! Taste of Baldwin Park brings food and drink vendors from all over Orlando for a full foodie experience right at home. Get your tickets today before they sell out and don’t forget to tag us on social media at @ VisitBaldwinPark to be featured during the event!

BRIE BERNSTEL MULTIMEDIA & COMMUNITY COORDINATOR

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