Forced tips. Really?

As a former bartender and server, I understand and appreciate the restaurant industry and know tips are their livelihood. Tips often make up a significant portion of their income, incentivizing them to provide excellent service. However, forcing customers to pay a specific gratuity amount can be perceived as an infringement on personal choice. The decision should be solely decided by the customer, based on the level of service and overall satisfaction. Yes, staffing may be challenging… but as business owners, that’s our responsibility, not the customers. The owner or managers should be responsible for finding the solutions here. Creating a positive work environment, offering competitive wages, and providing opportunities for growth and advancement will naturally attract motivated individuals who excel in delivering exceptional service. Most of the time I leave a tip over and above the standard but that’s something I decide. The business owner should be focused on creating an atmosphere where customers are delighted and motivated to leave a tip, not obligated. Service excellence will also lead to attracting great talent. Your team members will be recruiting for you. By investing in training programs, emphasizing customer-centric values, and continuously improving the quality of service, businesses can cultivate an environment that encourages patrons to leave gratuities without coercion. Furthermore, the concept of service excellence goes beyond individual transactions. It extends to the overall reputation and success of the business. When customers have consistently positive experiences, they become loyal advocates. Satisfied customers often share their positive experiences with friends, family, and even on social media, effectively becoming ambassadors who attract new customers. Business owners indirectly enhance their recruitment efforts by creating a culture that encourages team members to refer qualified candidates. As business leaders, there are many practical takeaways from these ideas. Maintaining a sense of responsibility and empowerment in the team leads to high-level service. By setting clear expectations, providing adequate training, and fostering a positive work culture, businesses can ensure that employees understand the significance of exceptional service and take pride in their roles.

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May 2023 Data Reveals Strong Momentum For Orlando's Real Estate Market

The residential real estate market in the Orlando area is displaying continued momentum as summer 2023 approaches. The inventory level in Lake, Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties remained steady at 5,149 homes compared to April 2023. There was a notable increase in closed sales during May, with a rise of 13.9% (totaling 3,150) compared to the previous month. The uptick in closed sales points to a healthy housing market in the Central Florida region. Additionally, in May 2023, the average cost of homes in the Orlando area stood at $458,116, representing a 3.2% increase from April. The rise in average home prices can be attributed to factors such as limited supply, high demand, and the overall growth of the housing market throughout Florida. The decrease in months of supply, from 1.86 in April to 1.63 in May, further underscores the market's limited inventory. With fewer homes on the market, in addition to families commonly relocating during the summer months, the Central Florida region could experience an active home buying and selling season. While the Federal Reserve decided to maintain the fed fund rates at 5% - 5.25% during their June 2023 meeting, rate increases are expected later in 2023. Eventually, clarity from the Fed on a wind-down plan from its current policies will provide insight for future economic projections and allow the financial market, housing industry, and economists to forecast more accurately. The timing and extent of these rate increases will have implications for the real estate market, potentially influencing buyer affordability and mortgage rates. Therefore, investors in the Orlando Floria area will closely monitor the decisions made by the Federal Reserve to assess the potential impact on the residential real estate sector.

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Winter Garden, FL: Where Vibrant Neighborhoods Meet Culinary Delights

Winter Garden, Florida (located in West Orange County, neighboring Clermont) is home to a thriving culinary scene and many diverse neighborhoods that provide an ideal setting for families to live and grow. From the historic district to newer/modern communities, Winter Garden offers a range of neighborhoods with an abundance of amenities and a strong sense of community.  In the heart of Winter Garden, Historic Downtown is a vibrant and charming neighborhood. With its cobblestone streets, tree-lined sidewalks, and historic architecture, this area exudes a nostalgic ambiance. The downtown section of Winter Garden is home to numerous restaurants that cater to a variety of tastes. The Chef's Table at the Edgewater and Market to Table Cuisine are just two examples of the outstanding dining options available within this historic district. Located in the southwest corner of Winter Garden, Independence is a master-planned community known for its family-friendly atmosphere and extensive amenities. The neighborhood features a clubhouse, multiple pools, sports courts, playgrounds, and walking trails. Within proximity to Independence, residents can enjoy a range of dining options, including The Whole Enchilada, The Attic Door, and Winter Garden Pizza Company. Oakland Park is east of downtown Winter Garden, a picturesque community with a strong emphasis on outdoor living. The neighborhood boasts scenic parks, lush green spaces, and a trail system that connects to the West Orange Trail. In addition to its natural beauty, Oakland Park offers a variety of culinary options for residents and visitors. Moon Cricket Grille, with its Southern-inspired cuisine, is a fantastic choice for a delicious meal in this neighborhood. Stoneybrook West is a gated golf community located to the west of downtown Winter Garden. The neighborhood features an 18-hole golf course, a clubhouse, a fitness center, swimming pools, and tennis courts. With its tranquil setting, Stoneybrook West provides a peaceful retreat for families. Nearby, residents can explore a range of dining options, including restaurants within the Winter Garden Village shopping center, such as Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant and Bahama Breeze. Watermark is a newer community in Winter Garden, known for its resort-style amenities and modern homes. The neighborhood offers a clubhouse, pool, fitness center, parks, and scenic water views. Within the Watermark area, residents can discover an array of dining options. Notable restaurants include The Tasting Room at the Chef's Table, where patrons can enjoy fine wines and delectable tapas, and Winter Garden's downtown pizza spot, Winter Garden Pizza Company. Winter Garden, FL, seamlessly combines vibrant neighborhoods with a flourishing culinary scene, making it an appealing destination for families seeking a balanced lifestyle. Whether you choose to reside in the historic downtown district, the family-friendly communities of Independence or Stoneybrook West, or the modern enclave of Watermark, you'll find an array of outstanding restaurants to tantalize your taste buds. Winter Garden truly offers the perfect blend of charming neighborhoods and gastronomic delights, making it an exceptional place to call home.

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