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Brought to you by: Joint Committee
OCTOBER 2024
Editor and Publisher Michael Eng, meng@orangeobserver.com
Design Editor — Jessica Eng, jeng@orangeobserver.com
Contributors — Dr. Arianna Becker, Brie Bernstel, Michael Lynch and Mimi Simmons
Sales Manager Cyndi Gustafson, cgustafson@orangeobserver.com
Sales Associate Kassie Gustafson, kgustafson@orangeobserver.com
Graphic Designer — Sarah Santiago, ssantiago@orangeobserver.com
To submit story ideas, calendar listings or have your event considered for coverage, contact Suz Tapy at stapy@baldwinparkpoa.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.
BY STACEY FRYREAR
The following information is a glimpse of the ROA’s general updates for the month. A copy of the official Aug. 27, 2024, Regular Meeting Minutes can be obtained on the Community Network, BaldwinParkNetwork.com.
The board accepted, appointed, and or approved the following items/work:
n Acceptance of Tiffani Lindstrom’s resignation
n Appointment of Greg Ford (the next person in line from the election based on the number of votes) to the board.
n Discussion with Phil Masi from Assured Partners, agent of record for the association. The board tabled any decisions to the September Regular Board Meeting. The discussion was on the insurance market, increase to the budget for all lines of insurance (10%), financing interest rate (current FED rate), Actual Cash Value, Fannie Mae changes, roof replacements that have been contracted with a completion date of June 1 2025, would be considered at a better rating. The estimated increase of 10% will be used for the 2025 budget drafts. Assured Partners recommended a budget increase of 15% for the Joint Committee budget; the liability insurance is expected to increase at this rate. Subsequently, SMI reached out to Phil Masi to ask for clarification on the shared liability policies (GL and Umbrella) between the ROA and JC. Masi responded the majority of the ROA’s premium is in the main property program that renews in April and that his hope/ expectation is Assured Partners will be able to reduce that at the
2025 renewal, which will help to offset any increases to the liability lines (GL and Umbrella). The JC’s majority of premium is in the liability lines, and he stated it is hard to see those lines decreasing at renewal in March. The JC needs to budget a larger increase than the ROA. The policies the two share are the liability policies which almost certainly will increase. Masi suggested increasing all the March renewals (GL, Umbrella, Equipment Breakdown, Cyber, D&O, Crime, Legal Gap) for the ROA 15% and (GL, Umbrella, D&O, Crime) for the JC 15% and then April Property Policy by 10% for the ROA.
n Appointment of Jack Hilton to the Bulk Internet Implementation Committee.
n Approved permit the TSAC to meet for Regular and Budget meetings in person as well as via Zoom (hybrid setting). Included in the motion, special meetings will be virtual via Zoom unless otherwise approved by the Board of Directors.
n Approved moving the contingency reserve monies to the operating checking account of ISSA 28 Division 5 per the auditor’s recommendation for use to pay upcoming operating expenses. Motion passed with all seven members present voting to approve.
n Approved the TSAC’s Aug. 15, 2024, Meeting Minutes except for item A. This item will be discussed during the budget workshops for 2025. Included in the motion was the approval of the TSAC Management Report.
n The timeline for the 2025 Budget Workshop and adoption was discussed. An email will be sent to owners describing the budget process and dates of various meetings and that we will refer to the overall budget meeting as a budget presentation and not a workshop.
n Discussion on holding Closed Board Meetings on a different day/ evening than the Regular Board Meeting. This will be at the president’s discretion.
n Authorized Mr. Slavens to attend the landscape meetings/site visits with BrightView and SMI.
n Authorized Mr. Agranoff to meet with Tim Webber Events to discuss contracted and proposed services on behalf of the board.
n Approved the TSAC revisiting their recommendation for the Chair position for their committee during the September TSAC Meeting.
n Approved a proposal to top off playground ADA mulch at Union Park.
n Approved a proposal to top off playground ADA mulch at Enders Park.
1. The pool party at High Park went well. You can find a recap of the party under Administrative Updates in the board packet.
2. The A/R/C & Associates (roofing consultant) invitation to bid on the Enders Park facility center and NEV garage roof replacements went out to roofing contractors. The prebid meeting occurred on Aug. 22, 2024, with roofing contractors. The deadline for proposal submittals was Sept. 5, 2024.
3. The August carpet cleaning at Enders and Grace Hopper was completed.
4. SMI maintenance installed a new photocell for the bollard lights in CH No. 3 Mews.
5. The lighting contractor for the CH No. 3 Mews bollard lights was replaced by All Phases Electric.
Continued on page 10
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.
6. SMI maintenance fixed the pool gate closure at the Grace Hopper pool.
7. The Annual Membership/ Election Meeting, along with the Organizational Meeting took place Aug. 6.
8. A Special Meeting occurred Aug. 1 to address a change order related to an unforeseen circumstance for the Division 3 Cambridge roof replacements.
9. SMI met with a member from CH No. 2 met upstairs at Grace Hopper Hall to discuss a hybrid set up to try for board meetings held Aug. 27.
10. Per the July Board Meeting, SMI compiled the mailing instructions and emailed those along with the 14-day notices for CH No. 1 Division 6 and ISSA 28 Division 5 that were required for the Special Assessment Meeting Aug. 27 to Sentry for mailing by Aug. 12.
11. SMI looked into whether there are issues with the association serving food at events. It was found that the association is not required to have a food permit or comply with the food licensing laws if the food is not being sold by the association. Per the insurance agent (AOR Assured Partners), there is no exclusion on the liability program for Baldwin ROA or JC for something like this. The current insurance program would provide coverage in the event someone got sick and filed suit. AOR recommended not providing anything out of the ordinary — such as oysters on a hot day or something unusual.
12. Spies Pools repaired the cracks in the filter tank creating a leak at the Grace Hopper pool.
13. Contract renewals presented during the July Board Meeting have been compiled, executed and emailed to the contractors.
Continued from page 9
14. SMI set up a meeting with BrightView’s account manager and arborist, along with Bobby Slavens CH No. 1 TSAC representative to walk the tree pruning/removal proposal against the Consulting Arborists list for townhomes that occurred on July 31. During this inspection, all questions were answered.
15. The approved 2024 Engagement Letter with Cole & Associates (auditor) was executed and provided to the auditing firm.
16. The key fob reader at the High Park gate on the large pavilion side was replaced by Sciens Building Solutions.
17. The CPR Certification Class was held from 6 to 9 p.m. Aug. 8 at Fire House No. 1 on Central Boulevard. The firehouse can accommodate six people per class, and the class was full. The station charged $20 per person, which is a discounted price.
18. Met with an owner in CH 2 to go over the hybrid setup and speaker in the gathering room of Grace Hopper in preparation for the upcoming Aug. 27 Board Meetings.
19. SMI filled the vacant maintenance technician position.
20. DRS pressure washed and painted the CH No. 2, CH No. 3, and CH No.4 Mews benches as well as pressure-washed and painted the CH No. 2 and CH No. 4 Mews knee walls. CH No. 3 mews walls are brick and those were pressure washed as approved.
21. DRS pressure-washed and painted the trellis/pergolas in CH No. 2, CH No. 3, and CH No. 4 Mews as approved.
22. The replacement umbrellas for the High Park pool were delivered.
23. The replacement slings for pool lounge chairs and dining chairs were delivered.
24. Per the board, SMI sent violation letters to owners and candidates who put out signs, flyers, circulars, posters, door hangers or the like related to the upcoming election; it is against the association’s rules.
25. The first plant swap occurred July 27 at the High Park Pavilion. Participants seemed to enjoy the opportunity to get together and swap and talk about plants.
26. SMI emailed The Pool Specialist (resurface company), because it did not provide the documentation to the Florida Health Department to satisfy the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act when the pools were resurfaced in 2020/2021. SMI asked the company to provide the completed forms; the company was unresponsive. The company was difficult to work with when the resurfacing work was being completed. SMI spoke to the Florida Department of Health representative and was granted an extension to Dec. 31, 2024, for compliance. SMI emailed Becker Law on the situation, and Becker Law sent a demand letter to The Pool Specialist. The Pool Specialist complied, and the forms were executed by the appropriate parties and emailed to the Florida Department of Health.
27. SMI revised the covenant violation letter templates and ARC denial letters to reflect the changes in Florida Law (2024 Legislative Session).
28. SMI compiled all notices of commencement for work more than $2,500 and emailed them to the SMI Home Office for recording.
1. SMI is obtaining pool maintenance proposals for the upcoming year.
2. SMI maintenance to install playground spin seats at Enders playground.
3. Replacement of the water tank at Enders and at Grace Hopper were scheduled for Aug. 22, 2024.
4. Design Guideline Amendments approval from the city DET2024-10119. SMI emailed the board-approved Design Guideline Amendments to the city of Orlando for review and approval. A pre-planning meeting/call was completed, and the city provided comments back to the association. The city plans on completing a determination for the changes. SMI paid for the permit cost for the determination case DET2024-10119 and uploaded the amendments to the permit website.
5. DRS caulked the Grace Hopper pool deck and painted the coping bands as approved by the board in June. It started to rain, and the work was to be completed in the next week.
6. SMI obtaining a price to change out high-reach bulbs to LED floods (23). This is to save money by hiring an electrician to replace the high-reach bulbs. Once replaced, SMI maintenance will be able to replace the bulbs and fixtures — and not have to depend on electricians to do so. This will save on electrical costs in the future. Depending on the cost to replace all 23 fixtures, this may need to be a 2025 budget item. The initial cost came in at $14,600 from one electrician. SMI is still waiting on another proposal due to the initial cost.
7. 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 will be going out to bid for this work along with the CH No. 1 roof replacements in September.
8. There are four more replacement umbrellas for the High Park pool that need to be ordered.
9. SMI maintenance will replace the slings for pool lounge chairs and dining chairs as necessary.
10. SMI is gathering proposals from pool maintenance contractors to replace the current contractor. A service request came in on BP Solutions over the July 4 holiday weekend that the pool was dirty. The technician was on site Friday and cleaned the pool but was out sick Saturday. The company assured SMI it would send someone out to take care of the Grace Hopper pool on Saturday, but it but did not. Subsequently, the pool was closed. Received one company’s proposal for the work. If possible, would like to present one more proposal during the September Board Meeting.
11. Proposals related to the 2023/2024 reserve study update anticipated work to complete. Those include:
a. Asphalt overlay 1-inch Ender’s parking lot. A proposal will be obtained and brought to the board. Update: SMI met with ABC Paving on-site. It will provide three options for this parking lot due to the change in code concerning ADA grade requirements/limits. ABC Paving has been unresponsive. SMI approached DMI another contractor. DMI was on-site June 20 and will be providing a proposal. Still need one more proposal. Atkins is taking a look at the parking lot; engineered drawings are needed for the permit process.
b. Poured-In-Place surface at Enders and Union Park playgrounds. Rep Services to provide proposals.
c. New cardio equipment in Grace Hopper Hall and Enders fitness centers. Fitnessmith to provide proposals. Proposal options were presented during the September Board Meeting.
d. Trash cans, benches and bike rack replacements at Enders. SMI inspected and not all need to be replaced. Need to replace two bike racks, six benches and two trashcans. Victor Stanley to provide a proposal.
e. NEV garage door replacement. Overhead Doors to provide a proposal. Per Overhead Doors’ site visit, a new garage door is not warranted. The trim/seal around the door is damaged but can be repaired without replacing the door. The proposals provided by Overhead Doors to replace the door and trim ranged from $6,525 to $6,610. This money can be saved at this time. Will revisit this during the 2026 Full Site Inspection by the Reserve Analysis company.
f. Stain Enders Pool Deck. DRS to provide a proposal. Received proposal and reported that to the reserve study analysis company. It came in at three times the cost. Once SMI is fully staffed in maintenance, it could be completed in-house to save money.
g. Pump motor for Enders kiddie pool. Not needed at this time. Will revisit this during the 2026 full-site inspection by the reserve analysis company. Fire alarm system at Grace Hopper Hall. Not needed at this time. Will revisit this during the 2026 full-site inspection by the reserve analysis company.
h. Replace Grace Hopper Hall pool heater. Not needed at this time. Will revisit this during the 2026 full-site inspection by the reserve analysis company.
BY MELISSA PARKER
The following information is a glimpse of the business that the Townhome Service Area Committee addressed in the Aug. 15, 2024, meeting. A complete copy of the official minutes can be obtained on the Community Network, BaldwinParkNetwork.com.
n The TSAC recommended to the ROA Board to approve the BrightView Tree Care 2024 Tree Trimming Proposals.
n The TSAC recommended to the ROA Board to approve the contract renewals for Live/Work and City Homes No. 4 with Wayne Automatic.
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 Ethan Lane and then will head to Baldwin Park Street. The roof replacement project will head to Upper Park Road once the prior replacement areas are completed. Residents will receive updates via notices on their front doors when the next section will begin.
n Issa 22 and Issa 28 phase two roof replacements. administrative work that must occur prior to the actual replacements beginning is almost completed. Issa 28 will receive roof replacements first off Meeting Place. Following the completion of the townhomes on Meeting Place, Issa 22 replacements will begin off Corrine Drive. Residents located within the two services areas will receive more information as it becomes available.
n The Live/Work service area will be receiving roof replacements for phase one. The notices of commencements and permit applications with the city of Orlando are currently being reviewed and processed. The project will begin at 1300 Lake Baldwin Lane toward the end of September. Residents will receive updates as they become available.
n New sod that was installed in July 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 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 is also working directly with HotWire on any irrigation breaks that occur because of the fiber optic 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.
As fall and winter weather is approaching, many residents are either making improvements to their homes or possibly planning to change something in the near future. This information can help you plan to make any changes to the exterior of your townhome or courtyard/private zone area.
n If you want to make any exterior changes to doors, windows, hardware, courtyard/private zone, etc., you will need to obtain approval from the Architectural Review Committee. The applications are available on the Baldwin Park Network, BaldwinParkNetwork.com.
n If you are replacing a door, window, plant species, etc., with the same exact one; or 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), you will need ARC approval.
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.
n Per DRS Inc., here is the townhome maintenance scheduled for 2024: Live/Work and City Homes No. 1; fence repair for Cambridge, Issa 22 and Issa 28.
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.
BY BILL PATTERSON
October is the month of spooks, treats, and football! The Village Center has you covered for all three and more! Check out one of our restaurants for food and drinks during the games. Our shops have all the Halloween decorations you could want for your decorating. Do not forget to pick up some trick-or-treat candy!
n Parking Lot Work. The area known as the Neighborhood Business District or Unit 7, which is off Lake Baldwin Lane before the Cady Way Trail, is scheduled to get the parking lot and roads seal-coated this year. This is a collaboration between the COA and the Urban Orlando CDD, which owns Outer Road and Halder Lane. Please be on the lookout for notices concerning this project; sections of these roads and parking lot will be closed temporarily for the work. This project is pending weather conditions. There must be several days where the asphalt is dry to do the work.
n Parking. The Village Center parking lots and the Neighborhood Business District Parking lot are for
Meet Gretel, a 7-year-old Shepherd mix. Gretel’s friends call her a Renaissance dog. Her cosmopolitan personality was fashioned on the streets of Mexico as a puppy. Soon after, she manipulated our hearts from a shelter in Phoenix, Arizona. Later, Gretel dazzled internationally in Toronto, Canada, before presenting herself to Baldwin Park’s best earlier this year. She is currently
commercial owners, tenants, apartments and patrons of businesses. All vehicles parked there are subject to the rules and regulations of the parking lot. All vehicles must have current tags, be single-parked, be in good repair and not be abandoned. All vehicles that do not meet the rules and regulation requirements will be tagged and towed at owner’s expense.
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 Landscaping. Several projects around the parking lots are being planned over the upcoming months. This will give a fresh look to the parking lots.
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.
dating Louie, the fluffy white playboy down the street, and is studying nights at sitting and begging.
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.
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 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 ARC. An architectural review is required for all exterior — and some interior — changes, including 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.
Baldwin Park’s people, paths and parks make it the perfect community for canines and their companions.
MICHAEL LYNCH
Without a doubt, Will Rogers was beautifully articulate about his love of man’s best friend. As a figure well-known for his love of both people and animals of all kinds, I think Will Rogers would have found himself right at home in Orlando.
I met my wife, Rachel, while living in Pensacola. When we moved together in 2008 to Orlando, one of her first observations was the sheer amount of dog owners. She was amazed. Dogs were seemingly everywhere.
There is no denying it: Orlando is a dog-obsessed town. And our ample sidewalks and green spaces, easy access to the Cady Way Trail and the beautiful Lake Baldwin Park make Baldwin Park a dog owner’s dream community.
Ever since I can remember, I have always loved dogs. Big dogs, small dogs — it didn’t matter. When I was 5 years old, the movie “Dog Day Afternoon” was playing at a local theater, and I begged my parents to take me to see it. They rightfully refused. Later as an adult, it turned out to be one of my favorite movies, but I was bitterly disappointed as a child to find out the movie had nothing to do with dogs.
My wife and I have three dogs — one mixed-breed rescue Coree and two cardigan Welsh corgis, Panda and Persimmon. Coree is a big, fluffy, older great pyrenees/ chow mix and is slowing down a bit. Panda is gentle and sweet — and on a weight loss journey. Persimmon is the youngest and
a ball of energy. The one thing in common is that they all love their dog walks.
My weekday alarm is set for 5 a.m. every morning. I use the early-morning hours to relax with a cup of Irish breakfast tea, get a jump on emails and make Rachel’s lunch for her days working in-office. But the very first thing on the agenda is always the dog walks.
In 2011, I spent seven months living in Redondo Beach, Cali-
waiting for a wave at sunrise.
I found that in Baldwin Park, there is something akin to the “Dawn Patrol” when it comes to dog walking. I tend to see the same neighbors and furry friends every morning when the sun is just beginning to rise. You can tell some folks are in a rush to get the walk done and head to work, while others use the morning dog walk to connect with nature and energize for the day.
Being lucky enough to work from home, I have the luxury of taking the dogs on multiple walks each day. For me, the first walk always has a different vibe than the mid-morning or afternoon walk. The early-morning walk is usually a get-down-to-business type endeavor.
I have always considered myself to be something of a picky person. I changed that definition when I experienced how long my dogs take to find the perfect spot. Talk about picky! And heaven forbid if it is during a cold spell, dog walking a picky pup can require some patience.
Having three dogs, I have found it impossible to walk all three at one time. I start out with Coree and Persimmon. I then walk Panda, and sometimes Persimmon joins in for a second walk. Dog walks are healthy for a dog in both body and mind. I always try and remind myself not to rush my dogs during their walks. It is their walk — not mine.
fornia, working on a products liability case for a California law firm. Living my whole life on the East Coast and being transported to Southern California right on the water was a true culture shock. One thing I noticed right away was that every morning, a phenomenon in surfing known as the “Dawn Patrol” would occur. Surfers would get up when it is still dark, don their wetsuits and hit the water. Walking out to the beach in the early-morning hours I was amazed to see dozens of surfers bobbing on their boards
My favorite season in Baldwin Park is definitely the summer. Being an avid gardener, I love how every summer Central Florida is in full bloom. The summer rains are both a blessing and curse, however. If it was up to me, I would have it pour rain every day starting at midnight for several hours. But Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate.
A morning or afternoon rain can really mess up a walking schedule. My dog Coree just absolutely refuses to walk in stormy weather or even do her business in the backyard when it is raining. And Panda won’t budge off the couch at the sound of thunder or a crack of lightning.
My wife and I have a baby girl Ava Christina. During the weekends and evenings, we add to the fun by having Ava in the stroller and walking the dogs as a family. We are also blessed to have my mom live with us and help with Ava, which has the added benefit of a live-in dog sitter. My wife and I make occasional overnight trips with Ava, usually a staycation at one of the many resorts in town. Despite Mom being home to feed and care for the dogs, I sometimes utilize a dog walker while away to give the dogs some exercise to keep them happy. Although our home has a fenced backyard, I have found that nothing makes them more restful and content than a long loop around the neighborhood.
When choosing a dog walker, I have always found the best dog walkers come from recommendations and referrals from friends. Another good source is the excellent Baldwin Park Orlando Neighborhood Facebook group which frequently has posts
advertising dog walking services from local residents. Many of the services are offered by students home for the summer or just looking for extra income. It is a great way to stay local and help provide a neighbor some extra spending money.
It is amazing that we have the great Lake Baldwin at the center of our wonderful community. In almost every sense, Lake Baldwin is truly the heart and soul of Baldwin Park. During the summer months, it is important to keep in mind dog safety when enjoying Lake Baldwin. Not only does the pavement get very hot, but also the loop around the lake can be deceiving longer than expected.
We are also so lucky in Baldwin Park to have such easy access to the Cady Way Trail. On the weekday afternoons sometimes it feels like you have the whole trail to yourself. The other good thing about the Cady Way is you usually have ample time and dis-
“ If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.”
— WILL ROGERS
tance to see approaching dogs, pedestrians and bicyclists. It is important to stay alert on the trail, for both pet and people safety. When walking dogs, be aware of your surroundings and always be diligent about what is coming up behind you.
Access to Lake Baldwin Park and the off-leash area is an incredible dog-friendly amenity in our own backyard. Although I must admit, I have a love/hate relationship with dog parks.
On one hand, my dogs absolutely love them. There is nothing better than a successful dog park trip with all three dogs dirtying
up the backseat with tongues lagging, exhausted and happy.
On the other hand, you need to be especially vigilant when at a dog park. This can be even harder when you have multiple dogs enjoying the off-leash adventure.
Given the design of Baldwin Park and close proximity to our neighbors, it is vital to always be a responsible dog owner. This is especially true in the common green areas and the downtown commercial district. Keep your dogs leashed at all times and always ask permission before approaching another dog.
We could not imagine a better place to live than Baldwin Park. Having dogs and a love of animals such an important part of our lives, I am thankful the Lord has blessed our family with three dogs that are completely in love with our baby girl. The youngest dog Persimmon is particularly smitten. I cannot wait to enjoy my first dog walk with Ava Christina, leash in her little hand and enjoying all the love of her furry siblings.
L A K E B A L D W I N
Baldwin Park is the perfect community for those looking to make some healthy tweaks to his or her lifestyle.
DR. ARIANNA BECKER
Iam a family medicine and lifestyle medicine physician, wife and mother to two children living here in Baldwin Park. I am privileged to serve many of the lovely members of our community. Baldwin Park’s unique design, with its pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, abundant green spaces and numerous recreational opportunities, make it a desirable place to live. I also see it as an ideal environment for promoting wellness and activity for the entire family. My family and I are so grateful and feel so lucky to be part of such a vibrant, health-promoting neighborhood. If you live in Baldwin Park and you are hoping to find ways to improve your health, let me tell you about some of our family’s favorite ways to stay healthy together right here in our neighborhood.
One of the aspects I love most about living in Baldwin Park is seeing my patients, friends, and neighbors out walking, running, roller-blading, scootering or biking around the community. The 2.5-mile loop around Lake Baldwin is a popular spot for exercise, and it’s common to see people of all ages enjoying the beautiful views of the lake. Personally, we enjoy kayaking on Lake Baldwin. While living in other nearby neighborhoods may require a car trip to go anywhere, part of what makes our neighborhood great is its walkability. We love being able to take a short walk to Publix or Greenbeat when we need to pick up a healthy meal for the family.
Baldwin Perk also offers some yummy salads if you are looking for another healthy option.
My kids have participated in both T-ball and soccer at Blue Jacket Park, and my husband enjoyed playing in the adult softball league. My children love their time spent doing gymnastics at Metro Gym, and we also thoroughly enjoy swimming in all of the pools and exploring all the playgrounds we have access to here. Baldwin Park is also home to an excellent dog park with a beach, perfect for pets to get their exercise. Additionally, races, outdoor yoga and other fitness events frequently take place in the community, further promoting an active lifestyle.
If you are looking for other more structured ways to exercise, check out one of the multiple local fitness facilities
To subscribe to my free monthly newsletter or get more info on my Concierge Lifestyle Medicine Programs, visit dolifecoaching. com, or follow me on Instagram @dr.arianna_becker or Facebook @DO Life with Dr. Becker for health tips.
including F45, 9 Rounds, VinceFit, Body Lab Pilates and StudioFit. And although not technically in Baldwin Park, just a few minutes right up the street on Lakemont, we have an amazing facility called the Center for Health and Wellbeing that has a beautiful gym with organized classes, two pools, a healthy cafe called Nourish and a teaching kitchen known as the Nutrition Theatre. There,
you can learn how to cook for improved health.
We now know social isolation is linked to very serious health problems, making social connections extremely important. Baldwin Park encourages a strong sense of community by offering rent-able event spaces for gatherings. Plus, there are numerous community events and holiday celebrations occurring throughout the year. These things all help foster a close-knit, vibrant neighborhood.
Lastly, let’s not forget that Baldwin Park also supports overall wellness with accessible health services. From counseling services to medical doctors and dentists, residents have easy access to a wide range of medical facilities just a short walk or ride away.
Living in Baldwin Park not only has inspired my personal health journey but also played a role in driving my professional endeavors. After medical school, my husband and I relocated here for my family medicine residency, and we fell in love with Baldwin Park. It has been a wonderful and safe place to raise our two children, and living here makes it easy for us to teach them how to prioritize their own health.
Teaching your children healthy habits when they are young is one of the greatest gifts you can give to a child. That being said, having my kids and being surrounded by a health promoting environment led me to become board certified in lifestyle medicine. Every day, I see patients 18 to 100 years old, and it is fascinating and enlightening to see how drastically lifestyle
choices affect longevity. Maintaining great physical fitness and staying active has a huge impact on your health and living in a place like Baldwin Park can really help make it easier to do that.
I have a wonderful job in Winter Park, which I love, but completely separate from that job, I recently launched a passion project, which is my Concierge Lifestyle Medicine Program. In this program, I work one-on-one with patients to help them improve their habits related to diet, exercise and overall wellness. The goal is to help them lose weight (if desired), reduce stress, and prevent or manage chronic health conditions through natural ways.
I offer a free, monthly newsletter filled with wellness tips, healthy recipes and motivational content, and also provide on-demand video courses about various health topics. This is part of my ongoing commitment to support my patients in their journey toward a healthier
Down:
1. Smells yummy at Corrine Commons
2. A fruit with a face
3. Pet of the Month
4. Outdoor celebration
6. A doggone pawsitive event
8. Another word for Fall season
10. Worn on Oct. 31
12. Botany trading
Across:
5. Squirrels love ’em!
7. October 26 event
9. Spooky night
11. Orange white and yellow triangle
12. Color + breast cancer
Discover the of your POWER MIND SUBCONSCIOUS
Transformative Journey:
Uncover the root causes of emotional and physical challenges.
Heal and Release: Let go of past traumas and emotional burdens.
Align with your Higher Self: Overcome limiting beliefs to embrace inner peace and fulfillment.
MIMI SIMMONS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
When I hear the term “underground,” what comes to mind is an artsy avant-garde counterculture, seedy, subversive, and hidden from the day-lit nine-to-five world. I imagine being drawn to an unmarked door off an alley that leads to a basement bar. The space is dark and probably not quite up to fire code. As the mist clears, beyond seated shadows, a back-lit band emerges onstage and begins to play a mixture of sound that is so different, so experimental, and yet somehow so familiar. As I soak it all in, fully entranced, I wonder if I am even cool enough to be there. I can’t wait to tell my friends about it. There are no basements off New Broad Street, but some things of significance lurk below the surface of every front yard .
In Baldwin Park, we are provided
with two kinds of water. The first is fully treated potable water suitable for drinking, showering, washing clothes and other activities inside the home. The second is reclaimed water, which is appropriate for watering plants, washing cars and other activities outside the home.
At the same time, we need a quick method to remove wastewater from sink drains, toilets, dishwashers and showers. This takes place through Orlando’s sewer system.
The physical mode of distributing these types of water into and out of each residential property is a type of pipe made of PVC or CPVC. These pipes run from main distribution lines located in the public right-of-way, under the sidewalk, into your yard and your home.
How can you find where each
service enters your property? Developers of our community made it easy by placing markings on the concrete curb in front of each home. W indicates the location of an incoming water line, R stands for reclaimed water, and X for sewer.
Once water and reclaimed water pipes enter your property, a separate meter for each along with a shut-off valve is attached. It’s important to know where each of these assemblies is located in case you need to shut off your service. Fortunately, they are hard to miss, because they are protected by large rectangular covers with access plates. These can often get buried under layers of mulch, roots, and dirt. A call to the Orlando Utilities Commission in the case of water service or city of Orlando in the case of reclaimed water service is all you need to request
Mimi Simmons
OUC Technician Lowell Gray replaces a reclaimed water meter with upgraded technology for a Baldwin Park resident. New water meters have an analog screen but can be read remotely by OUC services staff. OUC has contracted with Utility Partners of America to upgrade its water and reclaimed water meters. According to Eddie Fee, of OUC, technicians already have completed an estimated 80% of meter exchanges in Baldwin Park.
lifting these covers and plates. A sewer line does not require a meter but is often found by locating a small white circular clean out cap.
For additional assurance, utility structures can be located with a quick call to Sunshine 811.
Utility companies will tell you to expect water and sewer lines to be buried a minimum of 12 to 18 inches below ground level. How-
ever, there are exceptions to this rule, and line breaks can occur as a result. Also, after 20 years, PVC and CPVC pipes can become brittle and damaged by roots. Both water and reclaimed water lines are pressurized before their meters. Between the meters and your home, water lines remain pressurized unless the service has been shut off. Irrigation lines are typically not pressurized unless they the system is operating.
For water, if the break is on the street side of the meter, call OUC’s customer support line, (407) 423-9018. If the break is on the home side of the meter, you are responsible for the repair. Turn off the service at the meter and call a plumber immediately.
For reclaimed water, if the break is on the street side of the meter, call The City of Orlando’s Reclaimed Water Division, (407) 246-2213 or 311. If the break is on the home side of the meter, it is often not an urgent situation. Turn off the zone of the break and call an irrigation specialist. Many landscape professionals can repair minor post-meter irrigation issues.
For sewer line breaks, do your best to cover the break to prevent dirt from entering and call a plumber. You won’t be able to use toilets, sinks or appliances connected to your system until the repair has been made.
Mimi Simmons is the owner of Mimi Simmons Designs.
Mimi Simmons Design has been designing and installing landscapes in Baldwin Park since 2020. Over the years, our teams have dug up a variety of buried treasures that tell a story of life in our community including small toys such as Hot Wheels cars, Legos and marbles; holiday décor such as chunks of old garland, an Easter egg complete with an encapsulated prize and a plastic Halloween spider; and more utilitarian objects such as keys, a coffee mug handle and a pet identification tag. We have found construction debris like random pipes, roofing nails (lots of these!) and empty energy drink cans. We have even unearthed a few possible Navy relics, including a section of an old, rusted chain and a round wooden post with a sharpened end.
DETAILS: Expect to be impressed with this Baldwin Park beauty! This home is located on one of the only cul-de-sacs in Baldwin Park. The property has been renovated throughout with hardwood floors, plantation shutters, crown molding and trim work in the living room and dining rooms. Tons of natural light floods through the entire home. The family room is open to the kitchen area and overlooks the resort-like backyard, pool and spa. The kitchen features granite countertops, stainless-steel appliances and soft-close drawers, plus an eat-in space as well as room for barstools.
SOLD PRICE: $1,360,000
BEDROOMS: Four
BATHROOMS: 3.5
SQUARE FEET: 2,787
LISTING AGENT: Lisa Fleming, Fannie Hillman & Associates
SELLING AGENT: Chad Isenhart, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty
DETAILS: Boasting a beautifully upgraded townhome in a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood with ample parking, this residence is a gem. Nestled in Baldwin Park’s Village Center, opposite Publix, this coveted corner spot is rarely on the market. The townhome offers a well-designed layout flooded with natural light on a charming tree-lined street. The main level features a spacious living and dining area, a modern kitchen with a breakfast bar, and a half-bath with stylish tile flooring. Fresh interior paint, new designer fixtures, metal backsplash and plantation shutters enhance the appeal. Upstairs, the primary suite includes dual walk-in closets, a spa-like en suite bath and a large walk-in shower. Two additional bedrooms with balcony access, a full hall bath and a laundry room complete the upper level.
SOLD PRICE: $659,000
SOLD DATE: March 18
BEDROOMS: Three
BATHROOMS: Three full, two half-baths
SQUARE FEET: 2,160
LISTING AGENT: Brian Teach, Coldwell Banker Realty
BUYER AGENT: Paola Padovan, Padovan Realty Corp.
BRIE BERNSTEL MULTIMEDIA
& COMMUNITY COORDINATOR
Did you know Baldwin Park is nationally ranked for its Halloween trick-or-treating?
That may seem scary for those who have never trick-or-treated around the neighborhood, but luckily, we know a few helpful hints to ensure you have a safe and Happy Halloween!
Let’s start with the day of the week. Every year, there are always rumors about when true trick-or-treating will take place. Yes, some would like the festivities to be on the weekend, but trickor-treating always takes place on Halloween itself. Trick-or-treating typically begins between 5 and 6 p.m. and tends to wrap up by 8:30 or 9 p.m. the latest. If you do not wish to participate, simply turn your porch light off to let everyone know. For an added measure, add a little sign to your door, and your
home will be skipped. Now for the scariest part of the night: parking. Parking can be troublesome if you do not know where to go, but have no fear, that’s why we are here! Located on Jake Street, Baldwin Harbor has a parking garage, and the entire first floor is free parking. There are not a ton of spots, so get there early for this location. Next, there is always the tried-and-true parking lot near Publix. The entire parking lot is available, along with ample handicap spots. If you are running a little behind, don’t panic. One thing Baldwin Park is not in short supply of, and that is street parking. Choose an area of the neighborhood, pick a curb and bop around from there. We guarantee you can fill your bucket by covering a small area. Finally, there is always Blue Jacket Park. This makes for a little
Sentry Management, your on-site management team for the Baldwin Park Residential Owner’s Association Inc., Commercial Owner’s Association Inc., Joint Committee Inc. and the agent for the Urban Orlando Community Development District, is made up of an experienced group of licensed Community Association Managers and individuals. Our team talks with homeowners, meets with board members, supervises contractors and maintenance personnel and provides leadership to the association’s Board of Directors. The staff is cross-trained to accommodate peaks and valleys in the workload, and encourages you to take the time to visit the offices at 1913 Meeting Place to meet the team! At Sentry, people
are the difference.
If you frequent Grace Hopper Hall, chances are you have encountered Kanesha Woodard. Kanesha has the big job of keeping the building and surrounding areas exceptionally clean, including the pool deck, restrooms, gathering room, lobby, offices and fitness center. Her first day was Aug. 6, and she comes with experience as a groundskeeper at the city of Orlando’s Lynx bus system. Organizing, cleaning and attention to detail are her specialties.
Born and raised in Orlando, Kanesha attended Edgewater High School with her siblings. She is the oldest of five children — four girls and one boy — and most of her immediate family still lives in the area.
Kanesha considers herself a “homebody” but does enjoy going to the movies occasionally and spending time at the beach, as well as four-wheeling and jet skiing.
“Spending time in nature helps me clear my mind,” she says. “It’s like therapy.”
She enjoys her job because she can work at her own pace and considers it to be peaceful work.
“I make sure everything is clean inside and outside all by myself,” she says. “It gives me a sense of pride.”
bit more of a walk, but you can walk to New Broad Street in fewer than 10 minutes from here.
Helpful tip: Adults, keep your eyes peeled for homes handing out goodies for adults only.
Halloween in Florida can be frustrating at times — to say the least. Some years, you are bundled up, while others, you are feeling quite parched by the end of your trek. Don’t forget to bring water, fans or anything else you need to beat the heat. Pro tip: Bring a big plastic bag to put your candy in inside of your Halloween bucket in case of a sprinkle.
It can be a crazy day, but once you see a glimpse of a little smiling face behind monster paint, it makes it all worthwhile. (Dipping into their candy stash never hurt, either.)
Have a safe and Happy Halloween!
One of her favorite things about working in Baldwin Park is seeing all the different dogs on their walks, and she makes sure to check out the Pet of the Week posted in Grace Hopper’s lobby display case each week. Kanesha is a hard worker, but if you see her on the property, please take the time to introduce yourself. She always has time for a friendly, “Hello!”
Landscape Desi n & Installation
Landscape Design & Installation Premium Gardening Services
ARC Applications Assistance Resolving Covenants Violations
Porch Stylin & Decorations
Porch Furnishings & Design Potted Plants & Drip Irrigation
Florida Native & Pollinator-Friendly Gardens Raised Beds
Exterior Home Staging Lighting Selection Paint Color Palettes
Fence Design Gutter & Drainage Planning Paving & Hardscape
Mow & Blow Service Pressure Washing Tree Care Coordination
TUESDAY, OCT. 1
NATIONAL NIGHT
OUT HIGH PARK
Orlando is sponsoring a free party for residents and their guests.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 2
HALLOWEEN MOVIE NIGHT
Join your neighbors at Grace Hopper Hall for a free Halloween movie night! We will be screening “Beetlejuice.”
FRIDAY, OCT. 4
FIRST FRIDAY STROLL
5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6. Stroll down New Broad Street for shopping, live music and even snag some dinner.
Arilda Margjoni, MD
LIV Medical Direct Primary Care 1567 Meeting Pl, Orlando, FL 32814 P: 407-605-0682 www.livdpc.com
THURSDAY, OCT. 10
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE
6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 10 and 24, virtually.
SATURDAY, OCT. 12
TRICK FOR A TREAT
5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12, at Corrine Commons. Bring your furry bestie for vendors, games, contests, pup cups and more.
THURSDAY, OCT. 17
TOWNHOME SERVICE AREA COMMITTEE MEETING
6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17, virtually.
SAVE THE DATE
BALDWIN PARK
ELEMENTARY’S SADDLE UP FOR GAME DAY
Scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 2, at the Ravenous Pig, 565, W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, this adults-only fall fundraiser will benefit the Baldwin Park Elementary Parent-Teacher Association. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit baldwinparkpta.org/ shindig.
THURSDAY, OCT. 24
FRIDAY, OCT. 25
BACKYARD FOOD FARE
Enjoy a lovely evening in the park for the October Backyard Food Fare!
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
MINI MONSTER BASH
Take photos with stilt-walkers, pick your pumpkin, dance to a live deejay and check out everyone’s costumes! T
SUNDAY, OCT. 27
NORTH PARK CHURCH’S TRUNK OR TREAT
5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 27, at North Park Church, 2047 Prospect Ave., Orlando. There will be lots of free candy for the kids.
