KEEPING THE NEWS LOCAL & THE COMMUNITY CONNECTED.
DECEMBER 2023
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COMMUNITY UPDATES
VOLUME 4 EDITION 12
Evaluating Community Well-Being: Uniting for a Stronger Impact Over the past quarter, more than 50 east Orlando community leaders have met on multiple occasions to connect and collaborate on likeminded initiatives. The inaugural meeting, held in person in September, was to kick off a series of open and collaborative dialogues with business owners, government officials, non-profit and faith-based leaders, schools and activists, to discuss the needs and initiatives in East Orlando. This meeting was the first of a multi-faceted effort to learn and address the diverse needs in our community. After a lengthy discussion, the group determined that the next steps need to be to hear from the community! With a community as diverse as it is vibrant, and its well-being is at the heart of our combined mission. To ensure we meet the community’s holistic health and wellness aspirations, we are conducting a comprehensive community health assessment in the form of a brief digital survey. Your input will help guide the next steps for community programming that shape the future of health and wellness in our community. We have compiled a series of questions that will help us better understand what is missing in the community, where we are excelling and where we can grow. As part of a continued commitment to make the community the best that it can be, the survey data will be compiled
with the information gathered from the community leaders into a report that will be used as a benchmark to develop and improve programming, amenities, resources, and services in our community. Filling out this survey is an opportunity to give voice to what truly matters to you. The survey has been designed to capture a wide range of perspectives and needs, addressing the unique requirements of our community members. By sharing your experiences, preferences, and expectations, you are helping us create a tailormade health and wellness experience that resonates with every individual. Thank you for taking a minute to complete the short community health survey linked here before December 31st. By doing so, you will be providing valuable information on what is important to you in regard to health and wellness within your community. All answers are anonymous and will be used as a base to understand what the community as a whole views our overall health as, and how we can improve it through community action.
Empowering Health, Enriching Lives, Together.
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Year-in-Review: A Remarkable 2023 in Avalon Park Orlando Greetings Avalon Park Absolutely Avalon festivals that brought residents and friends! neighbors together to the record-breaking As we bid farewell to attendance at the Turkey Trot, Avalon Park 2023, I would like to truly knows how to celebrate. Beyond our take a moment to reflect borders, impactful community partnership on the incredible year events such as the Lupus Foundation Walk, we have had together. Arthritis Walk, and Lights On for Children It’s been a year of in November showcased our commitment to growth, collaboration, making a positive impact beyond our streets. and community spirit that has truly made The heart of Avalon Park beats strongest Avalon Park Orlando when our community comes together. The #BetterTogether. reactivation of the Community Garden has been a testament to this spirit, with Avalon Park welcomed a host of new new plants flourishing and raised beds businesses that have added vibrancy to our on the horizon. The Avalon Park Arts & community. From the refreshing juices at Culture Center has been a hub of creativity, The Juiice Box and the expert tax assistance offering classes, workshops, and exhibits. at Nona Tax to the fitness excitement at F45 Collaborations with organizations like the Training and the delightful flavors of Cafe Orange County Arts League and Pinecrest Coqui, our community has been buzzing Academy Black History Month Feature, as with activity. WeBuild, Resto Urban Kitchen, well as the impactful Donate Life Zora Neal The Bakery, and more have become integral Hurston Exhibit, have brought culture and parts of our daily lives, contributing to the artistic expression to the forefront. flourishing local economy. And I am very much looking forward to the addition of the As we look ahead to 2024 and beyond, your East Orlando Gym to our community this input is crucial. We encourage you to fill out December. the Community Health Assessment linked here to help shape the programming for the Our community’s event calendar was upcoming years. Your perspectives will guide nothing short of spectacular! From the lively us in creating a community that reflects the needs and desires of its residents. Thank You for a Successful 2023 To each and every member of the Avalon Park community, thank you for making 2023 a resounding success. Your support, participation, and enthusiasm have been the driving force behind our accomplishments. Wishing you a happy and healthy New Year as we continue to grow, celebrate, and thrive together. Here’s to an even brighter future in 2024!
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From the Desk of Commissioner
Maribel Gomez Cordero Happy December!
need. Last year, the drive collected more than 9,000 As December begins, we’re toys and serviced Orange Neighborhood gearing up for the happy County holiday season. It’s a time to Centers for Families and be with family and friends, 16 other local nonprofit share presents, and make organizations. The last day special memories. We can to donate is December 11th, enjoy the holiday magic and so if you are interested in cozy moments with loved participating please visit ones. December is also a www.ocfl.net/ToyDrive. time to think about the past year and look forward to As always, if you have any the new year. Additionally, questions or concerns, or if it’s a time to get excited you would like to receive about the fresh start and my newsletter, you can new possibilities that the email me at district4@ocfl. upcoming year brings. net or call my office at 407836-5881. You can also Recreation Center (1751 I would like to remind meet me in person on the Rhode Island Woods Cir). you of Orange County’s first Wednesdays of the My time at both locations is ongoing 2023 Mayor’s Toy month at the East Orange from 10am to 12pm. Drive. Now in its 13th year, Community Center (12050 E the Toy Drive has collected Colonial Dr) or on the Third Wishing you a Merry nearly 75,000 toys and gifts Wednesdays of the month Christmas and Happy New that directly benefit kids in at the Meadow Woods Year!
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Real Estate Forcast for 2024 Grab your Crystal Ball, vigorously rub it, and let’s see what the experts say about the 2024 Real Estate.
PRICES: “Home prices will likely increase by 3% to 4%.
FLORIDA’S FORECAST: “Florida’s housing market is likely to strengthen a bit, driven by population growth and the strength of Florida’s economy. “ ORLANDO: “Orlando is 3rd in the nation as a destination for inbound migration and as such, its HOMES FOR SALE: “Inventory will continue to be market should strengthen in 2024.” tight, there are simply not enough homes for sale. Sellers are likely to remain reluctant to give up their low-interest rate for a much higher one.” “Low levels of inventory suggest sellers will continue to have the upper hand; First Time Home buyers will struggle.”
EAST ORLANDO: “The 32828-zip code is the second most competitive area in all of Central Florida. There is likely to be a modest price increase during 2024 driven largely by a shortage of homes for sale.”
INTEREST RATES: “Mortgage Rates are likely are likely to fall into the 6%-7% range encouraging more buyers to enter the market.” Lower interest rates may be the driver of modest price increases.
THE EXPERTS: Greg McBride, Bankrate Chief Financial Analyst. Laurence Yun, Chief Economist, NAR. Chen Zhao, Chief Economist, Redfin. Dr. Brad O’Connor, Chief Economist, Florida Realtors.
John Alexandrou - Broker/Owner since 2003 | Avalon Realty Group: 3925 Peppervine Dr., Orlando, FL 32828 407-312-4928 | AvalonRealty@gmail.com
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Creating Holiday Magic: Crafting at Home with Your Family The holiday season is a time for joy, loved ones, and creating cherished memories. Amidst the festive hustle and bustle, there’s no better way to bond with your children and family than by indulging in holiday crafting activities right in the comfort of your home. Crafting not only fosters creativity but also sparks the magic of the season.
Fold and cut paper into intricate snowflake designs. Hang them around the house for a whimsical touch.
Imagine the delight on your child’s face as they create their own unique ornaments or design personalized holiday cards. These crafting moments aren’t just about the end product; they’re about the experience—the laughter, the messiness, the creativity—that becomes a part of your family’s holiday traditions.
7. Holiday Wreath: Use wire or a coat hanger as a base and decorate it with pinecones, ornaments, ribbons, and artificial foliage to craft a stunning holiday wreath.
6. Festive Garland: String together popcorn, cranberries, or colorful paper cutouts to create a festive garland for the fireplace or tree.
8. Gingerbread House Decorating: Check out this list of exciting holiday crafts for the whole family to Bake gingerbread house pieces or use graham crackers, then let everyone decorate with icing, candies, and sprinkles. enjoy: 9. Santa Handprint Crafts: 1. DIY Snow Globe: Create magical snow globes using jars, waterproof figurines, Trace and cut out handprints on red and white paper, then assemble glitter, and glycerin. Seal them tight and let it snow in your own them into Santa faces or ornaments. little world. 10. Candy Cane Reindeer: Attach googly eyes, a red pom-pom nose, and pipe cleaners to 2. Pinecone Ornaments: Collect pinecones, paint them in festive colors, add glitter or wrap candy canes to craft adorable reindeer treats. them with string to make charming ornaments for the tree. Here at The Flats at Avalon Park, crafting at home during the holidays isn’t just about making decorations; it’s about weaving 3. Handmade Holiday Cards: Get creative with cardstock, markers, stickers, and stamps to design memories, fostering creativity, and nurturing the precious bonds that make this season truly special. So, grab your scissors, glue, and personalized holiday cards for friends and family. glitter, and embark on a crafting adventure that your family will 4. Salt Dough Ornaments: treasure for years to come. Mix salt, flour, and water to create dough, then shape and bake it Contact us today for a visit! into ornaments. Paint them once cooled for a personalized touch. The Flats at Avalon Park 5. Paper Snowflakes: TheFlatsAtAvalonPark.com | (407) 273-4337
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CLICK HERE FOR VIRTUAL TOUR
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6 BED | 5.5 BATH | 2936 SQFT
4 BED | 2 BATH | 1,956 SQFT
$4,500 | This fully furnished home is just
minutes away from Disney and other major theme parks. This home is located in the prestigious Encore Resort at Reunion and offers a spacious and open layout. The kitchen, which opens up to the dining area and living space, is perfect for entertaining or simply spending quality time together. The first floor features one bedroom and a full bathroom. The remaining bedrooms, bathrooms, and office space are situated on the second floor. Covered patio overlooking private pool. Lawncare and cable TV included in the rental.
341 Lasso Drive Kissimmee, FL 34747
$ 2,850 | Welcome to this inviting, well designed rental home situated in an exceptional gated community. Step inside, to a freshly painted living and dining area. The kitchen has upgraded appliances, expansive 42-inch cabinets, and a central island. The master bedroom and en-suite bathroom offer a secluded retreat for the homeowners. There are three additional bedrooms positioned towards the rear of the home. Residents of this community have access to fantastic recreational amenities, as well as the shared facilities of the Timber Springs HOA.
15601 Montesino Drive Orlando, FL 32828
407.337.0300 Jim Carvajal
Rental@Carvajal-Group.com | Carvajal-Group.com
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This cozy cabin located in Sautee Nacoochee, GA is ready for your Holiday getaway! Just 15 min away from the Bavarian Village of Helen.
SouthernSkiesProperties.com
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Nostalgia and New Beginnings: Timeless Holiday Memories with Seniors The holiday season holds a special place in the hearts of seniors, filled with cherished memories and treasured traditions. For many, it’s a time of reflection, a chance to revisit moments of joy and create new memories. Let’s explore some timeless holiday memories and traditions that hold immense significance for seniors: 1. Family Gatherings and Reunions: The holidays often evoke memories of family gatherings— moments spent around the dinner table, laughter echoing through the house, and the warmth of loved ones’ presence. Seniors reminisce about these joyous occasions, recalling stories and reliving the bonds forged during these gatherings. 2. Homemade Treats and Recipes: Cooking traditional holiday meals holds a special place in seniors’ hearts. They reminisce about baking cookies, preparing special dishes, and passing down secret family recipes through generations, keeping the flavors and aromas of the season alive. 3. Decorating with Sentimental Ornaments: Hanging ornaments on the tree carries sentimental value for seniors. Each ornament holds a story—a memory from the past, a handmade creation, or a memento from a special occasion. Decorating becomes a journey through cherished moments.
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spiritual reflection, reaffirming faith, and finding solace in the familiar hymns and prayers. 5. Participating in Community Activities: Engaging in community events and activities during the holidays brings seniors a sense of belonging. Whether it’s volunteering, caroling, or attending holiday concerts, these activities foster connections and a sense of camaraderie. 6. Sharing Stories and Traditions: Passing down family stories and traditions to younger generations is a source of immense joy for seniors. Sharing tales of holiday celebrations from their youth keeps the spirit of these traditions alive. 7. Enjoying Festive Entertainment: Seniors often recall the joy of attending holiday performances, watching classic movies, or listening to seasonal music that brings back nostalgic memories and creates a cheerful ambiance. 8. Sending and Receiving Holiday Cards: Writing and receiving holiday cards is a tradition that holds sentimental value for seniors. Each card received brings a sense of connection and joy, often serving as keepsakes.
We are wishing our seniors at Encore at Avalon Park a very 4. Attending Religious Services: happy holiday season. To learn more about our services For many seniors, attending religious services during the or to book a tour, call 407-270-7500 or visit us online at holidays is an integral part of their traditions. It’s a time for EncoreAtAvalonPark.com.
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TCHS Robotics Team Champs: Team Bangarang Tournament Champions for the 2nd time in a row this year! The Team B and Team F alliance is on fire. They won this Saturday’s tournament at Apopka High School. Team B also won the Design Award. Please help me congratulate our teams.
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Elevate Your Holiday Celebrations at The 5th Floor
The holiday season is upon us, and it’s the perfect time to plan unforgettable celebrations. The 5th Floor is a great Reserve Your Celebration Today Whether it’s a themed dinner, a festive brunch, or a venue to make your holiday events come to life. corporate holiday party, make your reservations now at The 5th Floor. Elevate your celebrations with breathtaking The 5th Floor: A Venue Above the Rest Nestled at the heart of Avalon Park Orlando, The 5th views, impeccable service, and the delectable catering Floor stands as a premier event venue renowned for its options from The Marketplace. sophistication and versatility. With its stylish ambiance, it sets the stage for memorable gatherings during the This holiday season, let The 5th Floor and the Marketplace festive season and beyond. Whether it’s an intimate be your partners in creating a wonderful event. Book family gathering or a corporate soirée, The 5th Floor offers yours today by visiting us at The5thFloorOrlando.com or calling (407) 730-3493. Find us at 3801 Avalon Park E diverse event spaces tailored to suit your needs. Blvd. Ste. 200. Catering Excellence from The Marketplace What’s a celebration without exceptional cuisine? Partnering with the Marketplace, The 5th Floor brings an array of catering options such as Cheese to Share, NOLA Avalon Park, Spoleto, Pico de Gallo and Resto. For beverage options, Avalon General and Bowigens Avalon Park are also located in the Marketplace for all your wine and beer needs.
Unforgettable Holiday Memories This holiday season is the perfect time to say ‘thank you’ to your employees, and what better place to do that than at The 5th Floor. Make this an end of the year party they won’t forget!
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Tips For Holiday Shipping Happy Holidays from Avalon Mail and UPS. Center! This year we are bringing in the season with our Holiday Stamps For all your Holiday shipping needs, come see us at Avalon Mail Center and festive packaging. 3564 Avalon Park E Blvd Ste 1, across General tips to make the holiday season from Publix! go smoother. As early as possible, check the shipping and sending deadlines 3564 Avalon Park E Blvd Ste 1, Orlando, for the holidays. USPS Priority Mail FL cutoff date to deliver this holiday (407) 482-0662 December 25th season is by Monday, www.avalonmailcenter.com December 18th 2023, USPS First Class @AvalonMailCenter Mail or Ground Advantage cutoff date is Saturday, December 16, 2023. It is recommended to have all USPS packages sent by Wednesday, December 13th 2023. After December 18th, packages will be limited to FedEx
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Fun Holiday Activities to do with Kids in Orlando
The holidays are filled with so many activities! From school events to family fun, there is plenty to do. BUT if you find yourself going stir crazy or the kids saying the dreaded “I’M BORED”, then fear not! We’ve rounded up our favorite local events that will keep the whole family happy while having fun! These crowd pleasers are the top fun holiday activities to do with kids in Orlando!
Inexpensive Activities - Enjoy the Season of Sweetness at Amber Brooke Farms (U Pick Winter Festival), weekends Dec. 9-17 - Have fun at Crayola Colorful Christmas - Have a blast at Funbox Altamonte - Winterfest Oviedo
Join us for ur first Snacks with Santa Event! Orlando Mom is excited to announce our first Snacks with Santa Support a Local Organization event presented by Florida Citrus Sports! Enjoy a fun, family filled - Support local and take in the gorgeous trees at Festival of Trees - Explore the Asian Lantern Festival holiday event on Saturday December 16th from 10a to 1p! - Support a local cause at the Night of a Million Lights FREE Activities - Volunteer with the kids - Watch the parade and enjoy the Avalon Aglow event Attractions & Theme Parks - Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll - Festival of the Holidays at EPCOT - Have a blast at Oh What Fun in Lake Nona - Check out Holiday Nights at Island H2O - Do a holiday lights tour - Take a ride on the wheel and see the big guy at Icon Park - Attend Now Snowing in Celebration - Explore the Gingerbread Houses at the Disney resorts (you do - Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party - Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios have to pay for parking) - Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle - Head to Light Up The Holidays Altamonte Springs - Universal Holiday parade - Go to a local Tree Lightings - Grinchmas - Visit the Big Guy - Mannheim Steamroller- Dec 2, 3, 9 & 10 - Check out a Local Tree Farm
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New Year’s Eve in Avalon Park! Ring in 2024 Get ready to ring in the New Year with a spectacular display of lights, colors, and pure magic! Downtown Avalon Park invites you to a breathtaking New Year’s Eve Fireworks Extravaganza that will paint the night sky with joy and celebration.
Admission: FREE for all ages! Don’t miss out on the most anticipated celebration of the year! Gather your friends and family for a night of joy, laughter, and a sky full of shimmering lights. See you there as we welcome 2024 in style!
- Saturday, December 31, 2023 - Avalon Lake in Downtown Avalon Park
Stay tuned for restaurant specials and entertainment!
Highlights: - Fireworks Display Over Avalon Lake at Midnight - Festive Music and Entertainment at Participating Restaurants - Food Specials at Participating Restaurants - Family-Friendly Atmosphere Bring your loved ones and join the community as we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new with a burst of dazzling fireworks that will leave you in awe. **Event Schedule:** - 6:00 PM: Festivities Begin at Participating Restaurants - 12:00 AM: Fireworks Extravaganza Make this New Year’s Eve unforgettable! Create lasting memories surrounded by the enchanting atmosphere of Downtown Avalon Park.
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Coming together to create a healthy community
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ARTS & CULTURE CORNER
ARTS & CULTURE
ACC 2024 Exhibit Schedule and Themes We’re delighted to unveil the exciting lineup of special exhibits that will be showcased at our gallery throughout 2024. At the Avalon Park Arts and Culture Center, we believe in showcasing the diverse talents of artists while exploring captivating themes that inspire and resonate with our community. JANUARY: Let’s Get Wild: An Art Expose Featuring Untamed Nature - Exhibit Dates: 01/10/24 – 01/31/24 - Artist Drop Off Date: 01/03/24 - Artist Pick Up Date: 02/07/24 - Reception Date: 1/12/24 FEBRUARY: Heart for History - Exhibit Dates: 2/2/24 – 2/21/24 - Artist Drop Off Date: 01/31/24 - Artist Pick Up Date: 02/28/24 - Reception Date: 2/9/24 MARCH: Secret Garden - Exhibit Dates: 3/1/24 – 3/31/24 - Artist Drop Off Date: 2/28/24 - Artist Pick Up Date: 4/3/24 - Reception Date: 3/8/24 APRIL/MAY: Absolutely Art: The Art of Your Culture - Exhibit Dates: 4/3/24 – 5/29/24 - Artist Drop Off Date: 3/27/24 - Artist Pick Up Date: 5/31/24 - Reception Date: 4/13/24 JUNE/JULY: Eye of the Storm - Exhibit Dates: 6/1/24 – 7/31/24 - Artist Drop Off Date: 5/29/24 - Artist Pick Up Date: 8/2/24 - Reception Date: 6/21/24
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER: Wild, Wild West - Exhibit Dates: 8/2/24 – 9/28/24 - Artist Drop Off Date: 7/31/24 - Artist Pick Up Date: 10/2/24 - Reception Date: 8/23/24 OCTOBER: Use Your Illusion/Fantasy World - Exhibit Dates: 10/2/24 – 10/30/24 - Artist Drop Off Date: 9/25/24 - Artist Pick Up Date: 11/1/24 - Reception Date: 10/26/24 NOVEMBER: Lights On For Children - Exhibit Dates: 11/1/24 – 11/20/24 - Artist Drop Off Date: 10/26/24 - Artist Pick Up Date: 11/22/24 - Reception Date: 11/20/24 DECEMBER: Christmas Story - Exhibit Dates: 11/22/24 – 12/28/24 - Artist Drop Off Date: 11/16/24 - Artist Pick Up Date: 1/3/25 - Reception Date: 12/7/24 Artists from all backgrounds and styles are invited to participate in these themed exhibits. If you’re passionate about showcasing your talent, please visit our website to submit your work. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a vibrant artistic community! Visit https://avalonartscenter.com/residentartists/ artistrequest/ for more information and to submit your artwork. We are looking forward to making 2024 a year filled with artistic expression and community connection!
COMMUNITY CORNER
COMMUNITY
Orange County Animal Services Overwhelmed with Homeless Dogs After having to turn away dogs due to an outbreak of the canine pneumovirus, Orange County Animal Services (OCAS) resumed normal stray intake of dogs last week. The shelter quickly became overwhelmed. In the first week of accepting stray dogs, from October 30 through November 5, OCAS received 158 dogs. On Monday, November 6 alone the shelter received 40 dogs.
of it,” “Apartment complex doesn’t accept breed,” and “Cannot afford vet services.”
Shelter Animals Count, a national source of animal welfare data, recently published their third quarter analysis for 2023 and noted multiple alarming trends, including a rise in dog stray intakes, a reduction in pets transferring from shelters to rescue groups and a slight decline in dog adoptions. The The shelter is now caring for more than 200 dogs and asking data shows OCAS is not alone with its dog capacity issue. for the community to step forward to adopt, foster or attempt to reunite found dogs with their owners before resorting “Shelters across the country are struggling with capacity to bringing them to the shelter. Adoption fees have been issues as the number of dogs leaving with adopters, foster waived for dogs already spayed/neutered, vaccinated and parents, rescue groups and their owners aren’t keeping pace microchipped, those are designated as “ready to go.” with the number coming in,” said Summers. “The most heartbreaking realization is that people in fact do want to “Last week we announced our new intake diversion adopt, but the vast majority are looking for small dogs or program, an attempt to match struggling pet owners with puppies.” available community resources to keep them out of the shelter,” said Diane Summers, manager for Orange County Animal Services is asking residents to consider adopting Animal Services. “For some pet owners the option to keep and fostering. For those that have found a stray dog, the the pet wasn’t possible, so there’s a line forming of owned shelter is asking finders to first try to locate the owner. “In dogs needing to come into the shelter that we won’t be able reviewing our data, we discovered the majority of lost pets to help until our dog population is more manageable.” were within one mile of home,” said Summers. “Taking the time to post flyers, post on social media, have the pet scanned The shelter unleashed the intake diversion program last for a microchip, can make all the difference in getting that week, offering phone consultations to those considering pet back home, and quickly.” surrendering their pet to the shelter. Dozens of appointments have been booked. When asked “Reason for Rehoming” on PLEASE NOTE: Florida has a very broad public records law the form, a common theme was wanting the pet to have a (F. S. 119). All e-mails to and from County Officials are kept better life with a different owner. Some of the responses as a public record. Your e-mail communications, including were heartbreaking: “Apartment complex is threatening your e-mail address may be disclosed to the public and eviction because of the dog’s size,” “Have nowhere else to media at any time. go,” “Got Evicted,” “I now have cancer,” “Can’t take care
Plate Above Catering Offers Holiday Meals To Help “Feed Hope” With the holiday season upon us, many people are looking for ways to support local hunger relief efforts. One way to For more information and to review catering menus, visit give back, while also taking a break from preparing this www.PlateAbove.com. year’s holiday party, lunch or family dinner is by hiring Plate Above Catering to handle it for you. About Plate Above Catering (Plate Above) A social enterprise, Plate Above Catering is the exclusive Plate Above is a full-service catering company with a mission caterer of Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida and to provide memorable experiences through delicious food. provides financial support for the food bank’s Culinary From weddings to corporate events, intimate anniversaries to Training Program through the revenue generated from its community-wide gatherings, Plate Above offers customizable and catering services. innovative offerings. Led by award-winning Chef Jill Holland, Plate Above’s from-scratch cuisine and best-in-class service “This is the time of year when families gather around the creates an unforgettable taste experience that is a favorite amongst table and connect over a delicious feast,” said Chef Jill clients. Learn how Plate Above can help you create a memorable Holland, general manager at Plate Above Catering. “By event at www.PlateAbove.com. using Plate Above Catering this holiday season, you’re not only creating unforgettable moments, but you’re also feeding hope to a neighbor who wants to provide a better future for themselves and their families.” Plate Above’s holiday catering options include several different packages or a la carte menu offerings. Deadlines to place an order for the following holidays are: • •
Christmas: Friday, Dec. 15 New Year’s Eve: Friday, Dec. 29
COMMUNITY
Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings Launches 13th Annual Toy Drive to Benefit Local Families Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings today launched the 2023 Orange County Mayor’s Toy Drive. Now in its 13th year, the Toy Drive has collected nearly 75,000 toys and gifts that directly benefit local youth. Last year, the drive collected more than 9,000 toys and serviced Orange County Neighborhood Centers for Families and 16 other local nonprofit organizations. “The toys and gifts donated through our Toy Drive stay right here in Orange County and benefit local families who need support during the holiday season,” said Mayor Demings. “Residents can conveniently donate online or drop new, unwrapped items at one of 37 locations around the County. This year – in addition to parks and fire stations – the Orange County Library System is participating by accepting donations. We’re grateful to them for joining us and providing an additional 15 drop-off locations.” There are two ways to participate: ONLINE SHOPPING: This contactless donation option is available now through Monday, December 4, by simply visiting www.ocfl.net/ ToyDrive. This option allows donors to purchase items for the Mayor’s Toy Drive from their phone or computer. All donations ship directly to the Orange County holiday warehouse.
throughout Orange County, visit: www.ocfl.net/ ToyDrive. The Orange County Mayor’s Toy Drive serves children and youth from infants through teens. Cash, gift cards and plush toys are not accepted. Please include extra items where appropriate. For example, batteries with electronic toys, or crayons with a coloring book. For more information, including a complete list of drop-off locations, suggested toys for various age groups, and the link to shop online, please visit www.ocfl.net/ToyDrive. About Orange County Government: Orange County Government strives to serve its residents and guests with integrity, honesty, fairness and professionalism. Located in Central Florida, Orange County includes 13 municipalities and is home to world-famous theme parks, one of the nation’s largest convention centers and a thriving life science research park. Seven elected members make up the Board of County Commissioners, including the Mayor, who is elected countywide. For more information, please visit www.OCFL.net or go to Orange County Government’s social media channels.
IN-PERSON DONATIONS: For donors who prefer to purchase their toys for donation in person and drop them off at a collection site, these donations will be accepted now through Monday, December 11. For a full list of the 37 public-drop off locations
Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Seniors (SHINE) Program Now Available for Central Florida Seniors Central Florida seniors have three weeks left to enroll in a Medicare plan during Open Enrollment – and the number of seniors seeking assistance with enrollment in 2023 has dramatically increased since last year. In the last week of October, Central Florida’s Area Agency on Aging, Senior Resource Alliance (SRA), saw a 132% increase in calls from seniors who were seeking help with Medicare enrollment through its SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Seniors) program compared to 2022. To better assist the influx of seniors seeking health insurance support, SRA has set up a dedicated SHINE hotline: 407-514-0019. SRA is proud to serve as a resource to help protect
seniors from scams as Medicare fraud cases continue to be reported across the country. The increased demand is also likely due to the growing number of eligible seniors in SRA’s four-county service area, with an additional 22.8K seniors reaching the age of 65+ since last year’s Medicare Open Enrollment period. SHINE is a statewide program that offers seniors, adults with disabilities and their caregivers free, unbiased counseling on Medicare, prescription drugs and other health insurance matters. SRA oversees the SHINE program locally to help seniors in Orange, Seminole, Brevard and Osceola counties successfully enroll in a plan that best meets their needs and prevents them from falling victim to health insurance scams.
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The Kiwanis Club K-Family Food Drive The Kiwanis Club also held a K-Family Food Drive and collected a ton of food for the Woodbury Food Pantry, Bithlo Community and the Second Harvest Food Bank. Most of our schools participated in collecting food for the drive.
Teachers of the Month:
Avalon Elementary: Natacha Edmondson Camelot Elementary: Sadie Blaine Castle Creek: Lisa Shurr Columbia: Tricia Tripp Timber Lakes: Ana Rivas East River High School: Eric Flores Moss Park: Paola Gonzalez North Lake: Julie Tremblay Lake Nona High School: Tom Beard
COMMUNITY
