Winter Park, FL April 2024

Our Cover Story: Selling Florida through the Art of Postcards

Experience the Chill

Add Cold Plunge with other therap eutic tub options to get the ultimate in your bathing exp erienc e.

April: A Month for Kindness

Dear Readers,

As we step into the vibrant month of April, I am thrilled to introduce you to our latest issue of Winter Park City Lifestyle magazine, where the theme is "Invest." This month, we delve into the concept of investment in various aspects of life, from preserving memories with vintage postcards to investing in the well-being of our communities and workplaces.

Our feature stories will take you on a journey through time with a captivating exploration of vintage postcards. These timeless treasures offer more than just snapshots of the past; they are investments in nostalgia, preserving memories and moments that evoke a sense of history and heritage.

In addition, we shine a spotlight on an HR company that understands the value of investing in people. Through innovative strategies and compassionate leadership, they are redefining the workplace landscape and cultivating environments where employees can thrive and grow.

This month we celebrate the Week of Kindness inspired by the legendary Mister Rogers, we are reminded of the importance of investing in kindness and compassion towards one another. Through simple acts of kindness, we can create ripple effects of positivity and goodwill that enrich our communities and touch the lives of those around us.

I invite you to immerse yourself in the inspiring stories and insightful features that await you in this month's issue. May they inspire you to reflect on the investments you make in your own life and the world around you.

Thank you for allowing Winter Park City Lifestyle to be a part of your journey. Here's to a month filled with opportunities to invest in what truly matters.

Warm regards,

Brenden McQuilkin, Emily Weiskotten, Angelina Curatelli, Alexis Daniels

Emily Weiskotten, Angela Robbins, Savannah Daigle

city scene

Want to be seen in the magazine?

business monthly

Orlando Skin Solutions under New Ownership

Cosmetic Skin and Laser Center has become the new owner of Orlando Skin Solutions. Dr. Gustav Lo and his wife Courtney Lo, PA live locally in Winter Park. The own other locations throughout Florida and Michigan. Dr. Lo is a primary care physician with decades of experience in regenerative medicine.

Scan to read more

Bennett Aesthetics celebrates their Grand Opening

Skincare, much like fitness, is all about consistency and dedication. Here at Bennett Aesthetics, we believe in a holistic approach to skincare. While one facial can definitely give your skin a lovely boost, true transformation happens over time. It's about understanding your skin, nurturing it regularly, and being patient with the process. Bennett Aesthetics has opened at Howell Park Center.

Sorekara open in Baldwin Park

High-end Japanese restaurant, Sorekara, is finally set to open in Baldwin Park next month. The concept by chef William Shen, known for the now-shuttered French-Japanese omakase restaurant Ato in New York City, is set to open March 1 in the old Galeria Restaurant space at 4979 New Broad St. Shen seeks to encompass something different with this new project, saying Sorekara will embody "the Japanese philosophy of culinary arts re-created with European imagination."

NEED AN ADJUSTMENT, BUT CAN’T FIND THE TIME?

LET DR. J COME TO YOU!

Home, office, or just about anywhere, Dr. Jessica Mitchell provides mobile concierge chiropractic services throughout Central Florida, with a majority of her patients being in Winter Park and Baldwin Park.

About Dr J

A Winter Park native, Dr. J has been helping families improve their health and wellness for nearly a decade. While she treats patients from all walks of life, she has a passion for pregnancy, pediatrics, and athletes of all ages.

CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR NO-OBLIGATION CONSULTATION

Network In Action is a networking group for business professionals that meets monthly. The group is allows only one person per profession. The meetings are run by a professional with a different agenda every month. As a member, all you need to focus on is networking and growing your business. We have a great tech platform that helps build relationships quickly and saves a lot of time. We Guarantee an ROI! www.networkinaction.com

Suntek Zero Emission Lawn Care comes to Winter Park

Suntek Zero Emission Lawn Care is a landscaping service that will cut your grass without the noise. With all electric and solar-powered equipment, Suntek is able to deliver premium lawn care services that are environmentally conscious and distraction-free. Suntek has now expanded its services into Winter Park. Visit sunteklawncare.com to learn more!

Scan to read more

Nautique opens state of the art facility in Orlando!

The new Nautique Showroom is open in Orlando. They are elevating the boating experience in the Central Florida area.

Scan to read more

Step back in time and take a nostalgic journey through Florida’s rich tourism history with the latest postcard exhibit captivating visitors across the state. Offering a snapshot of bygone eras and cherished memories, this unique showcase celebrates the essence of Florida’s timeless allure. From the sun-kissed beaches of Miami to the enchanting theme parks of Orlando, each postcard tells a story of a bygone era, inviting viewers to reminisce about cherished vacations and unforgettable experiences. As visitors stroll through the exhibit, they are transported to a simpler time, where Florida’s natural beauty and vibrant attractions captured the hearts of travelers from near and far.

Winter Park History Museum has opened Hello Sunshine: Selling Florida through the Art of Postcards and Winter Park City Lifestyle was invited to comb through binder after binder to view the cards and take a stroll back in time.

The team at the History Museum sourced postcards from local residents, antique shops and flea markets. Partnerships with the Orange County History Museum, Winter Garden Heritage Collection and the Henry B. Plant Museum also helped with this exhibit. Featuring a curated collection of vintage postcards, this exhibit offers a glimpse into Florida’s evolution as a premier tourist destination. Whether you’re a

seasoned traveler or a lifelong resident, this immersive experience promises to evoke a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the Sunshine State’s enduring charm. The exhibit runs all year!

1) Dated 1929 with the caption “An Outdoor Sport in Florida” this card was sent by the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce to Ontario, Canada. It reads: IT’S TIME TO START FOR FLORIDA! Winter Park invites you for a healthful and enjoyable winter. May we be of assistance? (Postcard published by Sunny Scenes, Inc. Winter Park, Florida)

2) The year is unknown. This postcard captures the Winter Park Art Festival that has been taking place for over six decades.

3) The handwriting of the era is captured here on this postcard with the caption, Winter Park, Lake Oceola. And yes, it’s spelled that way on this card that was Made in Germany. The best part is the message that starts out: “I took the canoe back this P.M. Dr. B met me at the door and asked me if I thought it was honorable to help Miss B break the rules, etc.” Although there isn’t a date on this one, my research based on the stamp that was used shows this to be around 1903.

4) Comstock Park, located in Winter Park, holds a significant place in the city’s history and community life. Named after Charles Hosmer Morse’s first wife, Mary Comstock Morse, the park served as a recreational and cultural hub in Winter Park. This card was sent in 1913 to Woodland, Michigan.

5) This is captioned East Park Avenue, Winter Park. There is not a date on this one but it was Made in Germany and published by a company right here in Orlando.

6) The Yum Yum Shoppe was a beloved bakery and sweet shop that once graced the streets of Winter Park. Known for its delectable array of treats, the Yum Yum Shoppe was a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.

7) The Hotel Alabama, located in Winter Park, holds a significant place in the city’s history as one of its oldest and most iconic landmarks. Constructed in 1926, the hotel was originally known as the Alabama Hotel and was designed by architect George D. Rand.

8) Holler Chevrolet used postcards to advertise the dealership as well as new vehicles.

9) Captioned Treasure Island, Mead Botanical Gardens, this postcard is dated 1941. Sent to someone in Vermont, the message reads “ Here I am in Florida! And has it been warm today! But we are not grumbling!”

MR. ROGERS’ WEEK OF KINDNESS returns to orlando

A HEARTFELT TRIBUTE BY THE COMMUNITY TO THE LEGACY OF FRED MCFEELY ROGERS

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY WEISKOTTEN

In a city often bustling with noise and haste, the gentle teachings of Mister Rogers continue to resonate profoundly. Orlando is embracing the second annual Mister Rogers’ Week of Kindness, a heartfelt tribute by the community to the legacy of Fred McFeely Rogers, the beloved children’s television host and American icon. From April 1 to 6, the Orlando area is welcoming a variety of public events including rewarding educational experiences, orchestrated by the local family-owned Buena Vista Events & Management (BVEM). Attendees can engage with purpose as several members of the cast and crew of “Mister Rogers Neighborhood,” Fred’s television show, are attending with spirit and honor.

With Fred being a Rollin’s College alum, the city of Winter Park gears up with excitement to celebrate him in the town that sparked creativity and furthered his career toward inspiring and educating others. To do so, the event brings you on a heartwarming tour of the college campus.

Mister Rogers’ Week of Kindness includes a diverse array of activities that educate and honor the more personal elements of Fred Rogers’ life- the events leading up to his success.

On April 4th, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, attend the Woman’s Club of Winter Park for ‘Remembering the Rogers Afternoon Tea’ including a space for conversation of Fred including fond memories and honoring stories. Here you can meaningfully engage with Fred and Joanne Rogers’ loved ones and colleagues. Later that evening at 7:00pm, join the producer of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, Margy Whitmer, Mr. McFeely cast member David Newell, and Hedda Sharapan, Senior Fellow (The Fred Rogers Institute) and Child Development Consultant (Fred Rogers Productions) to view behind the scenes footage from the show and hear first-hand the warm energy Mister Rogers brought to his work.

“He was probably the kindest person I ever knew. He practiced kindness every day.”

The Prayer Breakfast of Thanksgiving and Celebration will be held on Friday, April 5th, from 8:00am to 9:30am, and dine with cast members and colleagues of Mister Rogers as they take a deep dive into how he walked with faith and lived a meaningful spiritual life.

Join us for an enriching Winter Park Neighbor Lunch and Learn event featuring David Newell, famously known as Mr. McFeely from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. Taking place on Friday, April 5, 2024, from 12:00pm to 1:30pm (venue to be announced), the session offers a captivating exploration into Fred Rogers’ life and his profound connection to Winter Park. Learn about the magical role Winter Park played in shaping the beloved television show, with insights from the cast and crew. Discover the enduring legacy of Fred Rogers and his family, who were integral members of the Winter Park community. Indulge in a musical masterpiece with the concert ‘Mister Rogers: The Musician Concert,’ which will be held on April 5th, at 7:30 pm, at the John M. Tiedtke Concert Hall at Rollins College.

More events include the Mister Rogers Speaker Series on Saturday, April 6th, at 9:00 am and the Red Sweater Soiree on April 5th, at 7:00 pm with location and more information to be announced for each.

With each activity, there is the opportunity to donate through Operation Shared Shoes, where you can donate lightly used shoes, and Sweater Drive by the Mustard Seed of Florida where

you can donate new or lightly used sweaters for donation. What better way to honor Mister Rogers than embark on acts of kindness and generosity with neighbors.

Central Florida held a special place in Fred Rogers’ heart. It was here that he found love, penned scripts, and composed melodies for his timeless program. His connection to Orlando remains deeply ingrained, making it truly Mister Rogers’ real neighborhood.

Reflecting on Rogers’ philosophy, David Newell, fondly remembered as the actor who portrayed Mr. McFeely, shared, “He was probably the kindest person I ever knew. He practiced kindness every day.”

Winter Park invites guests with open arms without cost or fundraising but instead by the tribute through simple commence. Supported by the McFeely-Rogers Foundation, the Fred Rogers Institute, and Fred Rogers Productions, Mister Rogers’ Week of Kindness is not only an opportunity to celebrate Fred Roger’s spread of kindness to a generation but a testament to the enduring impact of compassion on many more to come.

“Fred McFeely Rogers devoted his entire life to reminding us of some of the most important ideas of what it means to be human among humans: love, respect, and kindness,” remarked BVEM President & CEO Rich Bradley. “This is a week to re-engage with his massive body of work with some folks, and to introduce his teachings to others.”

WOMEN MAKING WAVES

For over 40 years, Baby Otter Swim School founders Mindy York and Marlene Bloom have been dedicated to keeping children safe in Florida’s many bodies of water.

“The more people we can help become successful entrepreneurs, The more children will be safe from drowning.”

“Our mission is to make Florida a zero-drowning state,” says Bloom.

The idea for Baby Otter Swim School began in 1975, stemming from Bloom’s safety concerns about her two-year-old daughter around pools. At the time, many swim schools wouldn’t teach children younger than three years old.

However, drowning continued to be the leading cause of death for children ages one to four. Even today, the Florida Department of Health estimates that the number of children who die from drowning every year could fill three or four preschool classrooms.

“As an educator, I decided I needed to do something about that. I didn’t want to lose my daughter if one time I was not there to pull her out,” Bloom says.

Bloom used her educational background and passion for swimming to develop a program that allowed children as young as nine months to learn how to save themselves if they fell into the water.

A few years later, York (Bloom’s good friend) experienced an incident where her daughter disappeared at a community pool.

“I turned for one second and she was gone. She had literally walked down the steps of the pool,” York says. York found her daughter at the bottom of the pool, quickly got her out and performed CPR. “It wasn’t pretty, but I was able to bring her back. I’m one of the lucky parents, but not many are.”

The incident was a catalyst for York’s involvement with Baby Otter Swim School.

Bloom and York joined forces, combining Bloom’s educational know-how with York’s business development experience to grow the Baby Otter brand.

When Bloom and York leased a pool in South Florida, families traveled to their training facility in Fort Lauderdale. Bloom and York quickly realized the need for instructors to provide private lessons at local homes.

CONTINUED >

The business took off once they did not renew the facility and offered traveling lessons exclusively.

“We became Florida’s premier traveling swim school,” says York. Baby Otter received special certification to conduct lessons in public pools throughout Florida.

York says Baby Otter Swim School is the world’s fastest learn-to-swim program. Using the proprietary Turn, Kick, Reach method, students can learn to swim in two and a half hours over five days.

“It’s a curriculum system developed by an educator. The programs are based on lesson plans for a child to develop over those five days,” says York. This lessonplan-based program led many former teachers to become full-time swim instructors with Baby Otter.

York and Bloom are dedicated to providing a safe space for children of all abilities to learn how to swim.

When one mom was told her children would never learn how to swim due to their autism, she turned to Baby Otter. Her children not only completed the program but also joined the swim team. Her daughter later competed in the Florida Special Olympics, winning over a dozen medals.

Baby Otter’s roster of former students also includes former Chicago Cubs outfielder Andre “The Hawk” Dawson and Gwyneth Paltrow’s daughter, Apple.

With four decades under their belts, Bloom and York don’t have plans to slow down. They moved their operations to the Winter Garden area in 2019 and have partnered with several local resorts to offer swim lessons for families on vacation. They are dedicated to investing their time, money, and effort into growing the business to help eliminate childhood drownings in Florida.

“Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages one to four. The Florida Department of Health estimates the number of children who die from drowning every year could fill three preschool classrooms.”

Bloom and York knew they couldn’t make Florida a zero-drowning state alone. In 2022, they franchised to reach even more families across the state. The company sold 15 territories in its first year and hopes to double that in 2024. These franchises cover territories throughout South and Central Florida and Long Island, New York.

“The more people we can help become successful entrepreneurs, The more children will be safe from drowning,” says York.

In addition to investing in more franchises, Baby Otter looks to open a new training center in Central Florida. The facility will be a place to train instructors in a weather-proof environment while providing a safe space for children with special needs and families

without access to private or community pools to learn how to swim.

For those interested in getting involved, the company is currently seeking franchise owners, donations and corporate sponsorships.

Bloom and York believe swim lessons are an investment in the future. Swim lessons allow children to be safe around Florida’s waterways. Franchise owners invest in a company with a forty-year legacy and a proven technique that allows students to learn to swim quickly.

“Swimming is a life-saving skill,” says Bloom, one that’s priceless.

info@babyotter.com | babyotterswimschool.com

1-888-SWIM-KID

People Excellence Through

REVOLUTIONIZING HR AND WHAT IT MEANS

Human Resources has been relegated to a department that haunts people’s dreams,  while being misunderstood as a mere administrative function of payroll and benefits. We talked with Thad Bragulla, CEO of Enhance HR and Business Solutions about taking the fear out of HR and helping companies achieve excellence through people. Enhance HR is dismantling the “principal’s office” myths and providing the essential framework companies need to create structure to elevate their clients to new heights. Whether it’s managing talent, handling risks, fostering culture, ensuring compliance, succession planning and mediating conflicts – HR is the backbone and driving force that fuels a company’s success and they’re here to revolutionize the HR experience for small business.

“HR is not the principal’s office. We’re breaking that stigma by helping companies cultivate safe, healthy, and efficient work cultures.”

1. What’s the difference between and Enhance HR and other HR companies? Culture is key. Enhance develops a strong business relationship with both management and labor within organizations to provide practical, sustainable and affordable solutions to a broad scope of human resources challenges, regardless of industry. Our approach provides the highest probability of ROI and results in improved efficiencies across labor expense, cultural development, as well as general compliance.

2. How do you develop that culture? The level of success an organization achieves is directly related to the engagement level of its employees.  Why not provide them the support they need to meet and exceed those goals? The modification of human behavior, effective administration, compliance, and strategic HR applications are not a do it yourself project. Companies require a cultivated structure with key processes that align with the needs and demands of the unique workforce.

3. How does your company structure benefit the businesses you work with? Without the proper level of employee engagement and performance, a company may fall short on achieving its organizational goals and objectives. We believe the best designed business plan in the world is only as good as a team’s ability to execute; and we know the benefits from mitigating risk, increased employee productivity and engagement, and improved performance outweighs any costs associated with retaining our firm.

4. How are you changing the way people perceive HR? Most employers only know “HR” in the capacity of payroll, benefits and administration. We open the eyes of our clients and help them gain a new perspective on the world of HR. Administrative  HR assets do not provide strategic management to the company. Many company leaders are skipping over putting energy in the direction of employee engagement and development. They lack access to design programs and policies that enhance and encourage human capital to perform at optimal levels. We provide them tools that compliment their business plan. Enhance provides senior level expertise in both HR and business development. A true business partner for the organization as a whole.

APRIL 1ST

Knight of Laughs

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive, Orlando, FL 32801 | 7:30 PM

Celebrate April Fool's Day with Knight of Laughs at The Abbey in downtown Orlando. Enjoy royal laughter and drinks at this comedy showcase featuring local comedians on April 1st. abbeyorlando.com

APRIL 1ST-14TH

UCF Celebrates the Arts

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia, Orlando, FL 32801 | 9:00 AM

An immersive and dynamic cultural extravaganza that fuses creativity, innovation and community engagement. This annual festival showcases the artistic prowess of UCF’s faculty and students and invites the broader community to enjoy performances, exhibitions, presentations and interactive experiences. arts.cah.ucf.edu/celebrates

APRIL 4TH

Taste of Baldwin Park Food and Wine Experience

4990 New Broad St Orlando, FL 32814 | 5:30 PM

Foodies & Wine lovers sip & savor your way through 45 of Orlando's best restaurants while enjoying live music lakeside in Baldwin Park. All-inclusive tickets include 3+hrs of unlimited food, drinks, live music. Tickets available on Eventbrite.

APRIL 5TH

Free Downtown Orlando Historic Architectural Walking Tour

Downtown Orlando Info Center, 201 South Orange Avenue, Suite 102, Orlando, FL 32802 | 9:00 AM

On the first Friday of the month, from October-May, we offer a free guided tour of the Downtown Historic District. Tours feature architectural and historic information about some of downtown Orlando’s oldest and most historic buildings and begin at 9:30 a.m. at Discover Downtown - the Downtown Orlando Info Center (201 S. Orange Avenue). Tours last approximately 1.5 hours. visitorlando.com

APRIL 6TH

Great American Cleanup - Lake Baldwin Dog Park

Lake Baldwin Dog Park 2000 S Lakemont Ave Winter Park, FL 32792 | 9:00 AM

In honor of Earth Month and as a part of the nation-wide Great American Cleanup, volunteer to cleanup one of five locations city-wide. Volunteer to clean up litter around the park (including surrounding neighborhood). Supplies (safety vests, gloves, and trash bags) will be provided. We will meet at the Lake Baldwin Dog Park near the playground.

APRIL 18TH

Swing Fore Independence at Top Golf Lake Mary

Topgolf Lake Mary, 1010 Greenwood Blvd., Lake Mary | 5:30 PM

Swing is our opportunity to throw you a PARTEE! We want to bring our community together, say thank you, and share a little bit about what we are doing and what is new! Hosted by the Center for Independent Living. cilorlando.org

APRIL 21ST-27TH

The 16th Annual Winter Park Paint Out

Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens 633 Osceola Ave., Winter Park

Twenty-four professionally-acclaimed  plein air artists will paint at the Polasek Museum and at other locations throughout Winter Park and Orlando. Art lovers are invited to watch the artists at work and attend free painting demonstrations. ALL artwork created during the week will be available for purchase with a portion of the proceeds going to support the Museum. Sun., April 21, 1 p.m., April 22-26, 9 a.m. and Sat., April 27, 9 a.m. winterparkpaintout.org

APRIL 21ST

Seniors First High Tea

events

CONTINUED

The Alfond Inn, 300 East New England Avenue, Winter Park | 1:00 PM

Enjoy a proper afternoon high tea featuring fresh fruit, scones with jam and clotted cream, delicate finger sandwiches, petite desserts and a variety of teas. Proceeds from the event will be used to support Seniors First programs, such as Meals on Wheels. HighTeaAndHats.com

APRIL 24TH-25TH

Spotlight Cabaret Series featuring Tay Anderson - LIVE

Winter Park Playhouse, 711 Orange Avenue, Winter Park | 7:30 PM

Tay Anderson debuts her latest solo cabaret in The Winter Park Playhouse Spotlight Cabaret Series. Join Tay for a fun-filled evening of music and story. winterparkplayhouse.org

APRIL 26TH

Sideline Wine and Dine

Camping World Stadium, 1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando, FL | 7:00 PM

Sample fine wines, craft beers, and delectable dishes from dozens of local favorites, with proceeds benefiting the Florida Citrus Sports Foundation’s continued K-8 educational efforts. Tickets available at floridacitrussports.com

APRIL 26TH

Women of Influence Luncheon

The Alfond Inn, 300 East New England Avenue, Winter Park | 11:30 AM

The Winter Park Chamber's annual Women of Influence Luncheon at The Alfond Inn, where we will celebrate our most recent Relaunch graduates, women who are making their way back into the workforce after a career pause. We will also feature our 2024 Woman of Influence and our Woman of Influence Lifetime Achievement Award winner. winterpark.org

APRIL 27TH

15th Hannibal Square Heritage Center Folk and Urban Art Festival

Hannibal Square Heritage Center, 642 W. New England Ave., Winter Park | 10:00 AM

A celebration of Central Florida's richly diverse culture through art, music, food and more. hannibalsquareheritagecenter.org