Winter Park, FL May 2024

NAYROUZ OLARTE: HER LIFE EMPOWERED

Quick and honest service. Been using Munson for over a decade now. They always seem to make time to fit me in, emergency or not.”

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Family owned and operated business that treats our employees and clients like family. Over 40 years in business. We’re not here just to get your work, we’re here to take care of you for the long run.

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• Family Owned and Operated for More Than 40 Years

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• Daikin 12 year parts and labor warranty

• Emergency Service Available 7 Days a Week

• Working with Only the Most Reliable Brands in the Business

• Extended Equipment Warranties for Your Peace of Mind

• Always On Time and On Budget

• We Pride Ourselves on Providing the Best Customer Service

Let's Celebrate Women!

Oh, how I love being a woman! This month, let’s celebrate women, acknowledging their influence in the various facets of life. Let’s use this time to honor and cherish the pivotal role of mothers, showering them with love and gratitude on Mother's Day. This special occasion serves as a reminder of the nurturing strength and steady support that mothers provide. This month at Winter Park City Magazine, May becomes a platform for me to salute the resilience and innovation of female entrepreneurs. Their achievements and contributions inspire many, including me, emphasizing the significance of empowering women in the business world. As we celebrate the power of women in May, it is important to recognize and appreciate the many roles we play, fostering a culture of appreciation and empowerment for mothers, female leaders, and entrepreneurs. Moreover, I would like this month to be a celebration of diversity within womanhood, recognizing that every woman carries a unique story. City Lifestyle provides a stage to applaud women from various cultural, social, and professional backgrounds, encouraging an inclusive atmosphere that embraces each and every woman’s differences. Honoring mothers this month, I pay tribute not only to their nurturing qualities but also to the diverse paths they tread as individuals. As a “mommy’s girl”, I truly believe mothers embody resilience, adaptability, and a boundless capacity for love. My mother's stories of moving to the United States as an immigrant from the Czech Republic reflect the meaning of womanhood, showcasing the strength derived from her various experiences as well as her background and inspiring me to indulge in an issue that showcases women’s strength. This month's issue provides a spotlight on female entrepreneurs. We would like to recognize and celebrate their success and the challenges that were faced to accomplish their goals. Showcasing the businesses made and accomplishments among the female entrepreneurs of Winter Park, I encourage aspiring individuals to envision a future where their ideas and ambitions are not limited by gender stereotypes. As I revel in May's celebration of the power of women, let it be a call to embrace the treasure of womanhood and uplift the voices of females who continue to shape, challenge, and redefine our world. I hope for this month to not only celebrate achievements but also spark conversations that lead to empowerment for women across all walks of life.

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Brande Dils | brande.dils@citylifestyle.com

INTERNS

Brenden McQuilkin, Angelina Curatelli, Emily Weiskotten, Alexis Daniels

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Robbins, Philip Arambula

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Javier Vladimir Guardado

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Speed Mentoring 2024

This

Experience the Chill

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

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: CraigD and Johnnie-O from John Craig Clothing and Johnnie-O Brand 2: Johanna Murillo, Emily Armstrong: The Wow Pwr Summit

3: Gerrod and Nicole Trytten: Winter Park Fashion Week 4: Kay Rawlins, Stephanie Bowman, Marlyn Bonzil-Juste, Luana Ortiz: The WowPwr Summit 5: Anthony and Diana DiNova, owner of Winter Park Events 6: The Green Fling at Tactical Brewing 7: CB Muscato, Beaux Studios, Jill Houston, Corporate-Pride, and Brande Dils, at the UCF Intern Pursuit.

8: Sarah Alonso, Siria Andino, Leslie Dello Russo, Corinne Mayers from the LLS Leadership Team 9: David Martin Fox 35, Mr. and Mrs. Bretz celebrating their anniversary at Aj’s Chocolate House 10: Beyond the Leash hosted their first AKC Fit Dog Fun Run 11: Marie Mercado, Mo Hassan- owners of Sampaguita Ice Cream, Phil Rosenthal from “Somebody Feed Phil.” 12: The Visionaries of the Year representing the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society 13: Maxines on Shine serving for the Winter Park Rotary Club (Maxine and Curley) 14: Wall-E having some St. Pat’s Day Fun with Beyond the Leash

Explore Lake Nona from a Vibrant New Hotel

Aloft Lake Nona features loft-style guest rooms and suites and is home to Althea Events Center featuring over 14,000 sqft of flexible indoor-outdoor event space. Tempo + Grace – A Handcrafted Kitchen serves breakfast and dinner daily and is helmed by Michelin-recommended Chef Guillaume Robin. W XYZ Bar and Re:Mix Lounge create a lively space to mix and mingle and the sun always shines on our splash deck and pool. 7215 Corner Dr, Orlando Fl 32827.

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O-Town Compost Reduces Waste and Makes Gardening Easier!

O-Town Compost has a two-part mission that aims at both reducing the amount of food waste going to Orange County’s landfill, and making compost to support the local food system. There’s value in your food scraps!  Help us enhance Central Florida’s soil while living waste-free!

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Family First FirmMedicaid-Elder Law office opens In Winter Park

Family First Firm – Medicaid and Elder Law opens a new location in Winter Park. Looking to protect families and their legacies as the forefront of their practice, they provide guidance in all things Elder Law including Medicaid, Estate Planning, Probate, Guardianship, Social Security Disability, and Special Needs. 1030 W Canton Avenue Suite 102. FamilyFirstFirm.com

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Grand Re-Opening of Dress For Success in Winter Park

Dress For Success celebrated their Winter Park Boutique’s Re-opening. As the leading global nonprofit employment resource for women, Dress for Success empowers women to transform their lives and re-envision their futures. They provide women with the services, tools and professional attire to secure employment and advance their careers. Programs equip women with confidence and community that helps build self-defined success and both personal and professional renewal.

HYSER. Luxury Real Estate opens in Winter Park

HYSER. is a luxury real estate brokerage specializing in residential deals. The team is led by one of the most successful brokers in Central Florida, Brian Hyser. Their team is ready to help you find your next dream home in Central Florida. Learn more about their services at Hyser.com

Flip Flop Shops has opened in Winter Park

They have a great selection of beach and relaxation footwear from Reef, OOFOS, Olukai, Cobian, Flojos and many more.  They also have beach accessories like sunglasses, beach towels and bags, and sunscreen.  We are located in the Center of Winter Park at 501 N. Orlando Ave.  flipflop shopswinterpark.locally.com

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.

Nayrouz Olarte: HER Life Empowered

A STORY OF MOTHERHOOD, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, EMPOWERMENT, AND HER

ARTICLE BY ANGELA ROBBINS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAVIER VLADIMIR GUARDADO

From the humble beginnings of her culinary career, where she tirelessly honed her craft behind the scenes, to becoming a multi-passionate parallel entrepreneur and founder of the nonprofit HER Foundation, her hospitality experience is crowned with a gift for throwing exceptional events (IYKYK).  The way Nayrouz can curate an experience can only be described as a gift, and when it comes to her entrepreneurial journey as a woman, a wife, a mother and the way she serves others today, it’s the one thing that ties all her worlds together.

HER PASSION FOR PARTIES

As co-founder and CEO of National Restaurant Consulting, Nayrouz Olarte will be the first one to tell you the journey to culinary success demands a deft hand and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Managing a restaurant is a marathon of decision-making, where every detail holds the potential to make or break a venture. After a decade of teaching moments and inevitable failures, and a successful exit from a restaurant concept she built, Nayrouz was well positioned to take her expertise in nearly every aspect of a restaurant and enter the realm of restaurant consulting. In 2022 she assembled a team of former executives with various backgrounds in operational execution, restaurant branding, employee engagement and profitability and started a consultancy providing a turnkey solution for entrepreneurs looking to develop new restaurant and nightlife concepts, or those looking for support while working through expansion and franchise opportunities for established concepts.

HER PASSION FOR WOMEN

While consulting with restaurant owners is fulfilling, it kept coming up for Nayrouz that women in particular needed help and guidance in business. She set out to develop a nonprofit to empower women and provide all the necessary resources required to start, grow and maintain a successful business. The HER Foundation includes programs surrounding entrepreneurship, business management and personal growth, while also

providing access to a powerful community of mentors and peers. The organization offers a diverse range of programs targeting different groups of women at unique stages of their journey. For example, one program teaches English to immigrants who would benefit from fluency in English, a core skill required to operate a successful business in the United States.  Another program hosts quarterly mastermind and networking style events where women established in business can come together and learn from each other and propel each other forward.

“Men do this. Men create networks and help each other. So we should be doing this too. I’m building what I see as the premier resource and networking community of the most remarkable women. “ Nayrouz said about HER Foundation.

Her passions and gifts culminated in 2023. After planning and hosting the first HER Gala where she partnered with Jackie Siegel and Victoria’s Voice Foundation, she caught the attention of the board of directors at Orlando International Fashion Week and was named Executive Director of the nonprofit organization. She would continue overseeing the development of  HER Foundation while planning a week-long fashion showcase featuring collections of over 30 talented designers from around the world. The celebration of fashion transcended the runway, seamlessly blending luxury lifestyle through various evening events.

It seemed as if Nayrouz was building incredible momentum and all of her passions and gifts were in alignment. She was simultaneously planning a new restaurant concept in Waterford Lakes while consulting on restaurant projects, preparing for the largest Orlando International Fashion Week attendance to date, AND had just received news she was pregnant.

“My pregnancy was like an injection of energy,” she said.  “Instead of causing me to rethink commitments and take a step back, I pushed forward and became more conscientious of my time and where I’d put energy each day. I’ve never felt more efficient or productive than I do now.”

“Men do this. Men create networks and help each other.  We should be doing this too. I’m building the premier resource and networking community of the most remarkable women.”

HER STORY

When you meet Nayrouz you’ll likely embrace her calming energy and admire her flawless fashion-forward appearance. Her state of being is the result of a now empowered HER; attributed to the tough lessons she learned along the way.

When I think of Nayrouz now that I know her story… I think…  “Wow, dreams can come true…” and the sweetest part of it all? She, too, thinks of it as somewhat of a fairytale.

She shares with me that she’s turning 39 this year and is 37 weeks pregnant; so by the time this article is printed her son Leo has likely been born. She’s living life, married to her dream guy, welcoming a baby that will bond their two families in blood. But as life tends to throw us both highs and lows, eight years ago a single mom running a busy restaurant – Nayrouz says that when she met her husband Giovanny Olarte, it was during one of the lowest moments of her life.

She described her life back then as one with zero work-life balance, explaining that she would regularly close the restaurant at 2am and have to reopen at 7am. She was separated and going through a divorce. Balancing running a restaurant with being a single mom with a toddler, she had no free time to herself.

She recalls, “There were moments when I almost lost it all, and I could never go on vacation because I could never leave the restaurant. I just couldn’t figure it out.”

Like many entrepreneurs, she struggled with living in the hustle. She was unable to think “big picture” and had a tough time delegating. The future seemed overwhelming but she recalls meditating, practicing gratitude,  believing that somehow she would prevail.

I asked her to describe herself at 29 compared to who she is today at 39.

“I was not always like this. Not even close. I was pulled in a million different directions. I wasn’t happy and so I wasn’t always the best at managing my emotions with my staff.  Now I can see all the things I did wrong and I can help prevent others from doing the same.”

HER TRANSFORMATION

At 39, Nayrouz is happily married, about to give birth to her second son, getting ready to open a new restaurant concept, and serving her community with an expanding nonprofit foundation.  When we talk about entrepreneurial mothers, and how “we really can have it all” … Nayrouz is living it. I ask how she went from that challenging time feeling stuck or overwhelmed to where she is today.

“So the craziest thing happened to me. I had a traumatic experience with a former employee who was struggling with mental health problems and I happened to be on the receiving end of him having a breakdown and threatening me. That night I was at the restaurant closing up and I was obviously very shaken up and that experience changed me. Giovanny, my now husband, at the time worked on the property where my restaurant was and he heard about the incident so he came to check on me. He stayed with me and helped me bus tables and clean up the entire restaurant and pretty much never left my side after that. That experience filled me with gratitude and I believe I started to become the best version of myself. I remember he used to tell me, ‘I am going to marry you one day’ and it turns out he was right!”

The couple married two years ago and is now expecting their first child together. The news of being pregnant came right as Nayrouz was making some significant career moves. What might have slowed her down only made her more confident, more strategic and more at peace with how her life had come full circle.

One of the most beautiful things about women when they come into wholeness and peace is they seemingly let go of things holding them back. They start living with more confidence and charisma. When you see it, you know it’s coming from a place of someone who has been through it and is now living life, Empowered.   Nayrouz, rightfully so, is on top of her game and, well... Empowered. Through meaningful work with HER Foundation and all her business endeavors we know everything she touches will turn to gold.

“My pregnancy was like an injection of energy. Instead of causing me to rethink commitments and take a step back, I pushed forward… I’ve never felt more efficient or productive…”

ARTICLE BY ALEXIS DANIELS

Off the Avenue

WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

Girl in the Green Apron

Girl in the Green Apron: Chef Madison Lambert offers personal chef and catering services in Central Florida. She creates weekly meals for busy families and singles, and crafts creative dishes for events from BBQs to soirees.

Drybar

Robyn Guokas is the owner of Drybar. At Drybar, the philosophy is simple. Focus on one thing and be the best at it. For them, that’s blowouts. With that purpose in mind, they are focused on giving each and every client the premier blowout experience while providing professional quality products and tools to help their clients achieve and maintain the perfect blowout.

Lauren Sigman Collection

Russo Wine Company

Russo Wine Company, owned by Anne Russo, Sommelier, caters to clients’ unique wine and beer preferences. Offering a diverse selection of old world, new world wines, plus domestic, imported, and craft beers, we prioritize individual tastes with handpicked inventories.

The Lauren Sigman Collection, a distinguished fine jewelry and lifestyle brand, boasts over 20 years of expertise. Its new store on New England Ave showcases Lauren’s creations alongside various notable designers. Additionally, it offers Marimekko Home and select brands like Carrie Song and Julers Row. Situated opposite the Farmers Market Building, this charming store welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Saturday.

Crystal Sablon leads Nolbas Linx with a mission to bring a unique experience to individuals and business owners to further connect through affordable, custom jewelry. From private parties to corporate events, permanent jewelry is a fun, unique experience to create engagement with your audience and community.

Cami Monet

Cami Monet is a watercolor artist based in Winter Park. Her store is filled with wonderful stationery and party supplies that feature her works of art. Cami also will create custom works of art for your special occasion.

Simply Cheese

Simply Cheese is owned by Ann Thornton. It’s a place for cheese lovers, cheese-thusiasts, novice cheesers, and everyone in between to enjoy simply, cheese. From artisan cheeses to accouterments, from charcuterie boards to locally-made goods, they proudly cut their carefully sourced cheeses on a first taste, then serve basis.

More Than Speech

Empowering Children Through Care: Meet Alyssa and Lauren, founders of More Than Speech. Based in Winter Park, it’s a beacon for pediatric therapy, offering speech, occupational, and physical therapy tailored to each child’s journey, accompanied by family education for holistic support.

Precision Collision

Heidi McDaniel is the woman behind Precision Collision in Winter Park. As a family-owned and operated Body Shop, her shop uses state-of-the-art equipment to ensure your vehicle receives the highest quality of work!

The House on Lang

At The House on Lang, you can shop, socialize, and find inspiration. This cozy bungalow brims with creativity, offering local art, jewelry, gifts, and more from the unique “Laundry” collection. Explore the workshop for art events and collaborations. Julie and Christie have made shopping here an experience.

Photo Credit: Branded Boss Lady

The aim was to create a space of friendship, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

Dating back to 1894, in the heart of Orlando, a group of spirited women formed the “Ladies Social Club of Orlando”. The aim was to create a space of friendship, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Just a year later, they re-established the group as the Rosalind Club, drawing their inspiration from Shakespeare’s enchanting character, Rosalind, from “As You Like It”. Little did the group of women know that the Rosalind Club would become the pulse of Orlando’s social scene, hosting an array of significant events and community celebrations.

In 1901, the club constructed its first clubhouse, which was a Neo-classical Revival gem that was located at 37 North Orange Avenue. As the city grew, so did their ambitions for an architectural masterpiece to call their own. In 1916, the club relocated to a magnificent new building at 11 North Rosalind Avenue overlooking the serene waters of Lake Eola, previously designed by architect Murray S. King. The original street was named West Street. However, a few years later in 1919, Mayor Giles suggested renaming the street to Rosalind Avenue, forever etching the club’s name into the fabric of Orlando’s City. Membership was extremely exclusive and included a who’s who of Orlando’s most influential families: Bumby, Dolive, Beacham, McCoy, Beardall, Holden, Blackman, Cheney, Branham, Duckworth, Giles, O’Neal, Guernsey, Ives, and Warlow. These names have shaped Orlando’s cultural and social landscape throughout the city’s history.  Historical documents and yearbooks recount the stories of the officers, board of managers, charter members who established its roots, regular members who livened its halls, and those who have passed on, leaving behind a lasting legacy woven into the memories of the Rosalind Club. The

club was more than a gathering place; it was a sanctuary where dreams became reality, and traditions were created. One of the most cherished traditions is the debutante ball, which continues today - presenting the daughters of esteemed members to society amidst a flurry of elegance and grace. These grand events introduce Orlando’s teen girls to the social scene, carrying on a legacy that has spanned generations. As the years roll by, the Rosalind Club remains a symbol of elegance and camaraderie, adapting to the changing times while preserving its rich heritage. The clubhouse’s stately walls continue to bear witness to life’s most cherished moments, serving as a premier venue for weddings and celebrations. Today, the club hosts luncheons and various social events for its members, which strengthen the bonds of friendship even tighter. Embodying the power of sisterhood is the club’s core purpose, as well as maintaining its role as the area’s longest-standing private women’s social club and highlighting its ongoing presence and activity in the community.

Orlando’s past, present, and future are intertwined within the hallowed halls of the Rosalind Club, creating a tapestry of memories that adorn the city’s rich history. From contemporary celebrations to the debutante balls that grace its charming spaces, the club remains a living example to the spirit of the women who have called it home throughout generations.

The Rosalind Club’s historical significance, exclusive membership, and continued operation underscore its enduring legacy. The stories and experiences of Orlando’s daughters, sisters, and mothers within its walls weave a vibrant tapestry that will forever adorn the city’s cultural fabric.

ARTICLE BY MEGAN HOBAN

The Art of Collecting

As consumers, we are constantly being enticed to buy. Whether it’s the jewelry we can’t live without, concert tickets to a show we don’t want to miss, or that favorite pair of shoes calling our name, we buy what we love, and art should be no different.

If you are new to acquiring original art, you may find it daunting, but it shouldn’t be. It is a special purchase that forces you to dig deep and discover a bit more about yourself. At first, many people shy away from buying original art because of the commitment. It’s a big decision after all, and how do you really know when it’s the “perfect” piece? Because art is subjective, part of the process is learning what style of art is the best fit for you. Is it colorful and energetic abstracts, or soothing landscapes that catch your eye? Maybe you are drawn to local photography, or even figurative works. There is no wrong answer, and maybe it’s a mix of several styles that creates your unique collection. The best way to find out your “art personality” is to get out and visit your local galleries. Consider making it a tradition to visit galleries while traveling or buy a piece of art as a gift on special occasions. In the gallery setting you can explore various art styles, mediums, and even learn more about the talented artists who create those works.

With the purchase of original art comes other considerations. Often, we have clients who need direction figuring out what size of art they need and its placement in the design of their space. If you find a piece of art you love, you will always find a spot for it. Ask the gallery if they offer in-home art consultation services to see the piece in your setting. Great custom framing is key, and well-designed framing is the jewelry to a great piece of art. Quality archival framing protects your art from UV rays that can damage a piece over time. Original art should last generations.

I’m often asked, should I buy art for investment? There is a place for investment art, but I don’t believe in buying art with the pretense that it will go up in value. There is no guarantee it will and to me, good investment art brings different riches to your life. Art that brings you joy, adds personality to your space, and makes your home original is an investment in you. The best art investment should be the feeling you experience gazing into an oil painting that perfectly captures a warm sunset over the prairie, or the texture created by a palette knife on the abstract that seems to pop off the canvas. That is what makes investing in original art priceless.

Art that brings you joy, adds personality to your space, and makes your home original is an investment in you.

MAY 2ND

Art in the Afternoon: The Art of Photography

2416 North Mills Avenue Orlando, FL | 2:00 PM

Explore art at the museum and unleash creativity in the studio! Students, aged 7-13, engage with authentic artworks, create unique pieces, and delve into design elements, fostering artistic talents. orlando.tamretail.net

MAY 4TH

Derby on Park by Mercedes Benz and Winter Park Events

Mercedes-Benz of Orlando, 810 N. Orlando Avenue, Maitland, FL | 5:00 PM

If you like to party with Big Hats, Mint Juleps, Delicious Food, and Luxury Sports Cars, then come experience the real “Horsepower” of Derby on Park at Mercedes-Benz of Orlando. Presented by: Mercedes-Benz of Orlando & Maker’s Mark

MAY 4TH

One Night of Queen

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts 445 South Magnolia Avenue Orlando, FL | 8:00 PM

Gary Mullen & The Works, with Gary Mullen on vocals, deliver a captivating One Night of Queen concert for over 20 years. Experience an electrifying tribute to Queen’s stage theatrics and music. Tickets.DrPhillipsCenter.org

MAY 9TH

Winter Park Library Series: Blue Bamboo presents Orilla

Winter Park Library, 1052 W. Morse Blvd., Winter Park, FL | 7:00 PM

Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts hosts monthly concerts at Winter Park Library, featuring Orilla, co-led by Catalan-Spanish Ona Kirei and Colombian-American Alejandro Arenas. Their multicultural blend creates a captivating, expressive, and skillful musical experience. bluebambooartcenter.com

MAY 11TH

Mother's Day Mommy and Me Yoga in the Garden

Mead Gardens, 1300 South Denning Drive, Winter Park, FL | 12:00 PM

Join us for an exclusive yoga session amidst the scenic Mead Botanical Garden, as we celebrate mothers and their children together in this special class! meadgarden.org

MAY 14TH-19TH

Peter Pan

Walt Disney Theatre, 445 South Magnolia Avenue Orlando, FL 32801 | 1:00 PM

A new production directed by Emmy Award winner Lonny Price with additional book by celebrated playwright  Larissa FastHorse. The adventure begins when PETER PAN and his mischievous fairy sidekick, Tinker Bell, visit the nursery of the Darling children. With a sprinkle of pixie dust and a few happy thoughts, the children are taken on a journey they will never forget.

WE AIM FOR PERFECTION

MAY 14TH-27TH

The 33rd Annual Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival

The

Orlando

International Fringe Theatre

Since 1992, Orlando Fringe has provided a space and opportunity for artists to emerge and showcase their talents and craft. The Orlando Fringe produces The Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, the longest-running Fringe in the United States, which strives to be unjuried, uncensored, and accessible for artists and audiences alike, with 100% of ticket sales given back to the artists.

MAY 17TH

2024 Women of the Year Breakfast Reception

The Alfond Inn, 300 East New England Avenue, Winter Park | 8:30 AM

Celebrate 23 impactful Central Florida women at a chic event with gourmet breakfast, luxury gift bag, and Orlando magazine subscription. Since 1946, Orlando magazine has showcased upscale, informative content about the city's lifestyle.

MAY 18TH

Ultimate garden Party “Escape to Elegance”

Signia by Hilton, Orlando Bonnet Creek | 1:00 PM

Enjoy a lively day with entertainment, hors d’oeuvres, live music, and casino fun. Savor cocktails, shop at the Trunk Show (vendors donate 25% to Second Harvest), and support fighting hunger in Central Florida. Each ticket sold contributes 100% to Second Harvest Food Bank. ultimategardenparty.com events

MAY 18TH

Unleashed. Uncorked. Unframed - Supporting Franklin’s Friends

Winter Park Events Center, 1050 West Morse Blvd., Winter Park, FL | 6:00 PM

It will be a magical evening with exemplary wines, gourmet cuisine, spectacular live and silent auctions, and a private art sale. WESH 2 News anchors Jason Guy and Michelle Imperato will return to emcee the event. We anticipate more than 250 animal lovers will don their cocktail attire and come together to support Franklin’s Friends and local animal welfare. franklinsfriends.com

MAY 18TH

CannonBall kids cancer “Gold Gala”

The Alfond Inn, 300 East New England Avenue, Winter Park, FL | 6:30 PM

Join us at Gold Gala 2024 for an evening devoted to funding pediatric cancer research. Your presence is vital in making a significant impact. Don't miss this opportunity with a critical purpose. cannonballkidscancer.org

MAY 23RD

Winter Park Wine & Jazz Spring Edition

Winter Park Events Center, Winter Park, FL | 5:30 PM

Join Winter Park Wine & Jazz on May 23, 2024, for a Night Out at the Winter Park Event Center. Enjoy live music, food, and premium wines across four unique indoor/outdoor spaces. Tickets available on Eventbrite.

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A POWERHOUSE IN THE WORLD OF WOMEN’S ROWING

WINTER PARK HIGH SCHOOL WOMEN’S CREW TEAM

Closer to home than we think lies a powerhouse in the world of women’s rowing—the Winter Park High School Women’s Crew Team. This distinguished team is not just a group of athletes; they are a force to be reckoned with, boasting an impressive record that speaks volumes of their dedication, talent, and perseverance.

As the team gears up for their 22nd state championship, the excitement among both athletes and supporters is palpable. With two consecutive national championships under their belt and eyeing a third, the Winter Park Women’s Crew Team has become synonymous with excellence in the sport. Their journey, however, extends beyond national borders as they prepare for their third invitation to the prestigious Royal Henley Regatta in England—a testament to their status as one of the top youth crews in the world.

Behind the scenes, the dedication and sacrifice of these young women are equivalent to that of professional athletes. Practicing six days a week, including morning and evening training sessions, demands a level of commitment and discipline that has resulted in a crew of truly elite athletes. Like most athletes of their caliber, their commitment has involved forgoing significant high school experiences like prom and even their graduation commencement ceremony, all in pursuit of victory on the water.

Their Winter Park High School Women’s Crew Team’s dedication isn’t confined solely to the water. These athletes are also academic scholars, embodying the true essence of student-athletes. Six of this year’s rowers have already been recruited to row for Division 1 programs in college with commitments to esteemed institutions such as Yale, Cornell, Bucknell, University of Virginia, University of Tennessee, and University of North Carolina. These young women are poised to excel in both academics and athletics at the collegiate level.

At the helm of this exceptional team is Coach Mike Vertullo, a stalwart in the world of rowing with an illustrious 25-year tenure at Winter Park Crew. His expertise, discipline, and unwavering support have been instrumental in shaping these athletes into the champions they are today. Under his leadership, the Winter Park Women’s Crew Team has evolved into a dominant force, setting new standards of excellence with each stroke of the oar.

What sets this team apart isn’t just their remarkable achievements but the values they uphold along their journey. They epitomize teamwork, resilience, and dedication—qualities that extend far beyond the confines of the water. Their success is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the unwavering belief they have in each other.

Embarking on their quest for yet another state championship, national title, and a triumphant performance at the Royal Henley Regatta, the Winter Park Women’s Crew Team carries with them the hopes and dreams of a community inspired by their remarkable journey. To aid in their journey to England—a trip necessitating $80,000 in fundraising—community members can contribute by donating through the following link: tinyurl.com/HenleyDonation.

Going forward, when you proudly talk about our charming Winter Park community, you can now boast that we have one of the nation’s leading female rowing teams!