KEEPING THE NEWS LOCAL & THE COMMUNITY CONNECTED.
JANUARY 2024
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COMMUNITY UPDATES
VOLUME 5 EDITION 1
Embrace Wellness in Avalon Park Orlando: Your Guide to a Healthy Lifestyle If your New Year’s Resolution is to get or stay healthy, the Avalon Park community is the perfect place to help you meet those goals. Enjoy all the benefits of the vibrant offerings and check out all the opportunities to embrace a healthier lifestyle. From the serene nature trails to the recently opened East Orlando Gym, our community offers a wide range of options to help you on your wellness journey. Trails for Hiking and Biking With the Hal Scott Preserve right in our backyard, all you have to do is step outside to be connected to Avalon Park’s picturesque nature trails. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk, an invigorating run, or an adventurous bike ride, these trails cater to all fitness levels. Don’t just exercise—immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while staying active. Check out the Avalon Park Trail map here. East Orlando Gym: Your New Fitness Hub For those seeking a more structured fitness routine or specialized training, the newly opened East Orlando Gym is a game-changer. With state-of-theart equipment, skilled trainers, and diverse classes, this gym offers a holistic approach to health and fitness. From cardio sessions to strength training and yoga classes, there’s something for everyone. Signing up for a membership here means gaining access to a supportive community dedicated to achieving health goals.
With classes for students of all ages, you are just a click away from starting your new healthy habit. Here are a few you might want to check out: Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, All-Star Dance, Championship Martial Arts, and Sword Masters Club. Run Towards Wellness: 5K Races Avalon Park embraces the spirit of wellness through its community-driven events. Keep an eye out for the exciting 5K races held by the Avalon Park Foundation before every festival. Participating in these races not only fuels your fitness journey but also allows you to engage with the vibrant local community. Stay tuned for sign-ups and mark your calendars to be a part of these exhilarating events, as well as a few others being added, like the Leap Year 5K by the East Orlando Track Club and the Spooktacular 5K by the East Orlando Knights Soccer Club.
Prioritize Your Health: Local Doctors Your health is your wealth, and Avalon Park is well-equipped with numerous local doctors and healthcare professionals. As we step into a new year, it’s an opportune time to book those essential health check-ups and appointments. Whether it’s a routine physical or a specialist consultation, prioritize your well-being by scheduling those much-needed visits. Check out some of these specialists in Downtown Whether you are an avid gym goer or just starting Avalon Park that will help you put your best foot your wellness journey, the Avalon Park Orlando community, presents an ideal setting for individuals forward on your fitness journey. dedicated to a healthier lifestyle. With its nature trails, the opening of the East Orlando Gym, Sunshine Ankle and Foot Experts accessible healthcare, and engaging community Avalon Park Eye Care events, this neighborhood fosters an environment Orlando Health Physician Associates where prioritizing health and well-being becomes a Avalon Park Woman’s Health Center way of life. So, lace up your sneakers, join the gym, AMP Oral and Maxilliofacial Surgery Center book those appointments, and get ready to embrace wellness in Avalon Park this year! Start a New Hobby Looking for a new active hobby? Look no further!
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Happy New Year Avalon Park Orlando! Almost 30 years park in front of your destination, you need ago I moved from to walk from a parking spot 100 yards or Switzerland to so. Additionally, parts of the city of Zurich Florida. People asked are for pedestrians and bikes only. me what is different in the US compared Well, because you can does not mean you to Central Europe. have to live a life without movement. My answer: In the US A few years ago, I decided to get in shape. everything is bigger, And like running a marathon, it starts with the buildings, the cars, a first step. It is all about getting started. and the people as well. If you have not done any exercise for I used to be an athlete many years, the beginning is a challenge. in my younger years in Switzerland. From However, after just a short period of time biking I went straight to eating and gained you will start to see that it becomes easier a lot of weight in Florida. Why? Instead and easier. And soon you will notice that it of walking from home to the office, to is not as difficult to run for 30 minutes, bike the store and most other places like in 1 hour or swim. I feel like the best strategy Zurich, Switzerland, in Orlando anything is getting up and right away to do some and everything can be done in a car, this exercise. After a few weeks, it becomes a coupled with eating larger food portions is habit, and you miss it if you skip just one morning. a 100% sure way to gain weight. I am writing this coffee hour from I am not a fan of complicated exercise or diet Switzerland, where I spent Christmas with plans. I truly think it is simple: eat about my family. And just looking at my average 1/3 less and work out daily. Anybody can steps a day while I have been here, they find 30 minutes a day to exercise. For me are double for my daily routine. Even if just getting 30 minutes up earlier works I drive in a car, there is always walking well. involved, most of the time you cannot I truly believe investing in the health and well-being of Avalon Park is one of the best things we can do for everyone in our beautiful community. With a highly motivated team, brand new equipment, longer operating hours, and more than 1,000 already joined as members, we are well on our way to becoming one of the healthiest communities in central Florida. I hope to see you there in 2024. Happy Healthy New Year Avalon Park!
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From the Desk of Commissioner
Maribel Gomez Cordero Happy January 2024!
know about an upcoming event I am hosting in commemoration of the annual Three Kings’ Day tradition. This event will be held on Saturday, January 6th, 2024, at 11am at Downey Park (10107 Flowers Ave, Orlando, FL 32825). This event will feature a toy giveaway, accompanied by the participation of diverse public and private community organizations. Complementary food, beverages, and live music will be offered to enhance the experience. This presents a wonderful chance for families and children in our District to partake in the joy of this beautiful tradition. The event is family-friendly, providing children with the opportunity not only to receive gifts but also to meet the Three Kings and relish a East Orange Community Center delightful outdoor atmosphere. (12050 E Colonial Dr) or on the As always, if you have any Third Wednesdays of the month questions or concerns, or if at the Meadow Woods Recreation you would like to receive my Center (1751 Rhode Island Woods newsletter, you can email me at Cir). My time at both locations is district4@ocfl.net or call my office from 10am to 12pm.
As January 2024 unfolds, we transition from the festive cheer of December to a month of renewal and new beginnings. The echoes of the holiday season linger, prompting reflection on the past year and the creation of resolutions for the months ahead. The brisk winter air and the quiet aftermath of the holidays provide a serene backdrop for contemplation and introspection. January represents a clean slate, sparking excitement and optimism as we eagerly anticipate new possibilities and set goals for personal growth. Amidst this spirit of renewal, Martin Luther King Jr. Day stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of justice, equality, and the ongoing pursuit of a better society. It is a month of individual transformation, where the promise of positive change adds a vibrant energy to the beginning of the year, inspiring us to navigate the unfolding chapters with hope at 407-836-5881. You can also and enthusiasm. meet me in person on the first Wishing you a Happy New Year! I would like to let everyone Wednesdays of the month at the
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New Year, New Opportunities: Real Estate and Lifestyle G’day there! As we bid farewell to 2023, let’s make 2024 extraordinary. We’ll set our sights on new beginnings, making positive lifestyle changes, and potentially looking to embark on a real estate venture. Your first decision will be choosing an experienced realtor who’ll support your New Year’s Resolution. The experts say these 5 Keys will help. 1. Friends and Family: Which Realtor professional would they use again? Did they enjoy working with them?
4. Your Realtor’s Character: After you’ve read their reviews, interview them. Trust 2. History repeats itself: your “gut” instincts. You’ll quickly know if you can A Realtor with Overwhelmingly Positive Online work with them. Will they be accountable to you? reviews will offer you the same outstanding experience Will they Proactively Call You and Return Your Calls? giving you a sense of confidence whether buying or Are they relaxed, confident, friendly & professional? selling. The more homes they have sold, and the years of real estate experience will assist you in achieving your goals.
5. Embrace Positive Change in 2024 New Year’s resolutions are all about embracing positive change and improving your lifestyle. As your personal Realtor, working together, I’m confident we’ll 3. Lifestyle Upgrade: make your goals a reality. You can ask me “the hard New Year’s resolutions are all about improving our questions” and expect a sincere and honest answer. lives, right? There is no substitute for Local Experience! Integrating real estate goals with lifestyle improvements A Realtor who lives and works in the community will can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life. be an excellent resource as you upgrade your lifestyle. Cheers to an incredible year ahead! John. 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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Embrace a Fresh Start: New Year Habits for Your Apartment With the arrival of a new year, it’s the perfect time to infuse your apartment with rejuvenating habits that set the tone for positivity and productivity in your living space. Welcome the new year with open arms and a fresh mindset by incorporating these impactful habits into your apartment lifestyle at The Flats at Avalon Park.
Create rituals that add meaning and joy to your daily life. Whether it’s a morning yoga session by the window, an evening tea ceremony, or a weekly movie night, these rituals anchor you to your space and foster a sense of belonging. Establish a Healthy Routine Prioritize your well-being by establishing healthy habits within your apartment. Create a home yoga area, experiment with nutritious cooking, and ensure you get adequate sleep. A healthy routine nurtures both your physical and mental health.
Declutter and Organize Start the year by decluttering and organizing your living space. Bid farewell to items you no longer need or use. Clear out closets, drawers, and shelves, creating an inviting and clutter-free environment. Organizational tools like bins, baskets, and shelves can transform chaos into order, making it easier to maintain a tidy home. Foster Connection Finally, use your apartment as a space to foster Create a Relaxation Zone connections. Host gatherings, game nights, or intimate Designate a corner or nook in your apartment as a dinners. Encourage laughter, conversation, and shared relaxation zone. Set it up with comfortable seating, soft moments that strengthen bonds with friends, family, lighting, and items that promote relaxation—perhaps a and neighbors. cozy chair with a throw blanket, a selection of calming books, or a meditation cushion. As you step into the new year, embrace these habits to transform your apartment into a place you love coming Implement a Cleaning Routine home to—a space that nurtures growth, positivity, and Establishing a regular cleaning routine helps maintain well-being. By incorporating these practices, your home a pristine living space. Break down tasks into at The Flats becomes more than just a place to reside; manageable chunks to prevent overwhelm. Consider it becomes a place that supports and inspires your best a weekly schedule that includes vacuuming, dusting, self. and sanitizing surfaces. A clean environment not only promotes physical health but also contributes to mental Call us today to schedule a tour at (407) 273-4337 or find well-being. us online at TheFlatsAtAvalonPark.com. Happy New Year! Set Personalized Home Rituals
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Embracing Change: Transitioning Parents into Assisted Living in the New Year
As the new year unfolds, it often heralds a time of reflection, renewal, and making thoughtful decisions for the months ahead. For families considering the transition of their aging parents into assisted living, the new year can serve as an opportune moment to embark on this transformative journey with compassion, careful planning, and a positive outlook. Recognizing Changing Needs The dawn of a new year brings forth an opportunity to assess and acknowledge the changing needs of aging parents. Noticeable shifts in health, mobility, or the ability to manage daily tasks might signify the need for additional support and care that an assisted living environment can provide. Open and Honest Conversations Initiating open and compassionate discussions with parents about the possibility of transitioning to assisted living is crucial. Approach these conversations with empathy, acknowledging their feelings and concerns while highlighting the benefits and support available in such communities. Planning and Preparation The transition process requires careful planning. Use the new year as a starting point to create a roadmap for the move. Consider aspects such as downsizing belongings, financial planning, legal considerations, and the logistics of the transition itself. Prioritizing Emotional Well-being The decision to transition to assisted living can evoke a range of emotions for both parents and family members. Acknowledge and validate these feelings, offering support and reassurance throughout the process. Encourage open communication and express understanding during this emotional journey.
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Personalizing the Transition Allowing parents to maintain a sense of autonomy and control during the transition is crucial. Encourage them to personalize their new living space with familiar belongings, cherished mementos, and items that bring comfort, fostering a sense of familiarity and home. Creating a Supportive Network Embracing the new year presents an opportunity to establish a supportive network within the assisted living community. Encourage connections with staff and fellow residents, fostering a sense of belonging and companionship that eases the adjustment process. Embracing a Positive Outlook Approach the transition into assisted living with a positive mindset. Focus on the opportunities for social engagement, the quality care available, and the relief from daily responsibilities, allowing parents to embrace this new chapter with optimism. Allowing for Adjustment Time The transition into assisted living is a significant life change. Allow parents the time they need to adjust and settle into their new environment. Be patient and understanding, offering support as they acclimate to their new surroundings. The new year holds promise and possibilities, offering a chance to approach the transition of parents into assisted living with thoughtful consideration and care. By embracing this change with empathy, planning, and a supportive approach, families can ensure a smoother and more positive transition for their loved ones. Here at Encore at Avalon Park, we are here to help make the transition as seamless as possible. We make sure to help your loved ones feel at as home as possible during their move. Call us today at 407-270-7500 or visit our website at EncoreAtAvalonPark.com. We are located at 13798 Cygnus Drive Orlando, FL 32828.
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Elevate Your Workspace: Embracing a New Year, New Office at The 5th Floor Orlando As the new year dawns upon us, it’s the perfect moment to breathe fresh life into your workspace at The 5th Floor Orlando. Whether you’re a remote worker, an entrepreneur, or part of a thriving team, the start of the year presents an opportune time to revitalize and invigorate your office environment.
that everything has its place, making it easier to locate items and streamline workflows.
Foster Collaborative Spaces The 5th Floor Orlando is not just about individual workspaces; it’s also a hub for collaboration and innovation. Create inviting collaborative spaces Design Your Productivity Haven where ideas can flow freely. Consider lounge areas or Your office space should inspire productivity meeting spaces conducive to brainstorming sessions and creativity. Start by evaluating the layout and and team collaborations. ergonomics. Consider ergonomic furniture that supports your posture and enhances comfort during Reflect on Your Goals long work hours. Explore adjustable desks, ergonomic The start of the year is an excellent time for reflection chairs, and proper lighting to create an environment and goal-setting. Take a moment to reassess your that promotes focus and efficiency. professional objectives. Create a vision board or a visual representation of your goals to keep you Infuse It with Personal Touches inspired and focused throughout the year. Make your office space uniquely yours by infusing it with personal touches. Decorate your desk with Embrace the New Beginning plants, photos, or artwork that resonate with you. Embracing a new year in a new office space at The 5th Personalizing your workspace not only adds aesthetic Floor Orlando offers an opportunity to set the stage appeal but also creates a sense of comfort and for growth, creativity, and success. By incorporating familiarity, boosting motivation and morale. these strategies, you can create a workspace that not only supports productivity but also fosters a sense of Optimize for Organization purpose and fulfillment. An organized space is a catalyst for productivity. Invest in storage solutions such as shelves, filing Call The 5th Floor Orlando today to book a tour cabinets, or desk organizers to keep clutter at bay. of the space (407) 730-3493 or visit us online at Designate specific areas for different tasks, ensuring The5thFloorOrlando.com for more information!
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5 Ways to Protect Your Family this Cold and Flu Season Cold and flu season is here, and it will invariably take its toll on our families. While sickness cannot be one hundred percent prevented, there are steps that we can take to protect our families and lessen the severity of the sickness. This is a mixture of common sense and practical measures that you can incorporate during cold and flu season. There are also things that you can do independent of vaccinations to keep your family healthy. Here are 5 ways you can protect your family during cold and flu season.
family regular vitamins and keep fresh fruits around the house. One study claims that Vitamin C can knock the equivalent of one day off of a cold for both adults and children. The combo of Vitamin C, Magnesium, Vitamin D and Zinc are proven to reduce the severity of symptoms and the duration of the common cold. It is worth it to have them on hand and as a part of your daily regimen.
4. Stay Home When Sick/Not Feeling Well When doctors tell you that daycare is where germs go to play, it is 1. Wash Everything Regularly hardly any exaggeration. Many outbreaks of illnesses begin with If we learned anything from Covid, it is that the first thing that we children at their school or childcare facilities. If you learn that there need to keep clean is our hands! Our digits are a conduit for germs is a virus going around, consider keeping your kids at home even if to reach our systems. Our hands touch our food and can transmit they are not yet sick. You already know that there is a high chance bacteria in large numbers (ewww). It is vital to wash our hands at all that they will bring something home with them and spread it to the possible times and to double our efforts during cold and flu season. rest of the family! We all have learned to use anti-bacterial hand cleaner whenever possible and carry a small container with us at all times. According If the kids do not feel well, resist the urge to keep sending them to to the Centers for Disease Control, frequent hand washing can cut school!! It will make their illness worse and will increase the chance the risk of respiratory illness by as much as 21 percent. When the that they will pass it to you and the entire class. Sometimes, one common cold, this years flu strain and the new Covid variant are day off may be enough to keep kids from spreading a virus. While going around, anything that we can do to lower our risk of getting taking time off from work to be with a sick child may be difficult, one of them can make the difference between a week in bed and a it lessens the chance that you may need to take more time off of bug avoided. work if one’s condition worsens. Since the dawn of “working from home” during Covid, we all know how to juggle this. Germs can live practically anywhere, especially on surfaces that are conducive for them. Take the time to wipe down all of your The same holds true for you. If you need to take a sick day, you are surfaces with an alcohol based cleaning solution. This will help kill human. One sick day is an investment in your future health even the bacteria that live on them. In addition, laundry should be done if it is not easy to miss a day of work. Sometimes, getting some rest frequently during cold and flu season because bacteria also stays and stopping activity is enough to quickly get you back to health. on fabrics. 5. Have Cold and Flu Season Essentials on Hand 2. Get Good Sleep Families are known for sharing things with each other. Along with Your immune system is at its strongest when your body is well- love and memories, families also share germs. It is important to rested. This starts with making sure to get all of the sleep that you have cold and flu season essentials on hand to keep your immune need to keep your body refreshed. Try to get eight hours of sleep system strong and body protected from winter sickness. When every night as a baseline. While nobody is suggesting that you one person in your family gets sick, you need to get defensive in a hibernate, a good night’s sleep matters even more during cold and hurry. In addition to making sure that everyone else in your family flu season. keeps a safe distance from the person who has a cold or flu, double your efforts to keep everything clean and sanitized and stock up on If you are not feeling at your best, make sure to get extra rest to these cold and flu season essentials. ward off the approaching virus. While taking it easy when not feeling well will not prevent the cold, it will help your immune My top essentials: system battle whatever threatens it. If you are not feeling well, do not feel the need to be a hero by pushing yourself to keep going. Shower Steamers Instead, take some time out to rest and refresh yourself. While you Vitamins should get the proper amount of rest, you should also take care to Homeopathic Remedies remain active since that will help build your immune system. Boiron Oscillococcinum Sambucol 3. Get Your Vitamins ekuBox Comfort Box Vitamin C, Magnesium, Vitamin D and Zinc are some of the best Lots of Fruit and Veggies minerals to keep your immune system strong. These supplements Fresh Cold Pressed Organic Juice are great compliments to the main defensive arsenal that we all Immunity Shots should have: restful sleep, stress management, proper hygiene, Homemade Vapor Rub adequate hydration, healthy diet, and daily exercise. Give your Essential Oil Rollers
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ARTS & CULTURE CORNER
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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!
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Orange County Animal Services Publishes 2023 Shelter Data Orange County Animal Services (OCAS) has published its statistics and third annual “Year End Report,” detailing the data for fiscal year 2023, which spanned October 1, 2022 through September 30, 2023. The figures confirm that trends observed nationwide are occurring in Orange County.
Despite these challenges, Orange County Animal Services was successful in achieving a live release rate[1] of at least 90% for the third year in a row. In fiscal year 2023, Animal Services facilitated an adoption, rescue placement or owner reunification outcome for 94% of its dogs and 87% of its cats, an overall rate of 90%. This metric is meaningful as nationwide animal welfare industry leader Best Friends has established 90% as the threshold for a shelter to be considered “no-kill,” although Orange County Animal Services does not utilize this particular label.
Shelter Animals Count, a national source for animal sheltering data, recently published their third quarter analysis and states: “shelters are in their third year of having too many animals and not enough adoptions — especially for dogs. The current trend shows dog adoptions down 1.2% from 2022 numbers, after shelter intake January-September 2023 saw a 2.5% “There’s a lot of good to be recognized in reviewing these increase in dog intake.” numbers,” said Summers. “This past year we’ve implemented new programs, revamped and expanded existing programs, Animal Services received 7,040 cats and 7,005 dogs in fiscal and the proof of that success is in this data, but more so in the year 2023, with the latter category showing an annual increase faces of the pets we get to help each day.” in intakes since the start of the pandemic. Additional data points of note: “A common misconception over the years is that our intake is tied to human population, with the fear being that if people • The shelter was able to nearly double its Instagram followers, are moving here in droves than dogs are also being abandoned going from 32,887 in FY22 to 79,094 in FY23. Social media has at record rates,” said Diane Summers, manager for Orange been key in showcasing pets and pushing essential messages. County Animal Services. “Looking over our data since 2010, • The enforcement operations team responded to 30,629 we’ve had a steady, if not slight decline, in the rate of dog requests for citizen assistance. intake. We saw a significant decrease during the pandemic, • The shelter’s clinic team conducted 7,855 spay/neuter but unfortunately dog intake numbers have nearly bounced surgeries and logged 16,834 veterinary exams. right back, up 27% in 2023 compared with 2020.” • There remains a wide divide in the reclaim rate of dogs versus cats with 37% of dogs reclaimed by their owners juxtaposed Hill’s Pet Nutrition recently published their “State of Shelter with just 4% of cats. Adoption Report” which also analyzes national animal welfare data and suggests that people are reluctant to own pets due [1] Live release rate is a common shelter metric and is calculated to cost, with veterinary care cited as a top expenditure, and by dividing the number of live outcomes by the total number housing concerns, due to restrictions imposed by property of outcomes excluding pets whose owner requested humane owners. euthanasia and animals who were turned over for disposal.
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Orlando Science Charter School to Open East Campus for 2024-2025 School Year Orlando Science Schools (OSS), a tuition-free public charter school system that sets a new standard in education with a unique blend of well-rounded learning and STEM excellence, is opening a new school – The Orlando Science Charter School K- 8 – in East Orlando in August 2024 for the 2024-2025 school year. The new school will serve K-8 students and is currently accepting enrollment applications for grades K-6. The 68,000-square-foot school features science, technology, engineering and math labs, as well as a gym and soccer field. The facility is designed with the space, technology and resources to support the school’s award-winning robotics, Science Olympiad, Model UN and competition math programming.
campus at 2611 Technology Dr. Orlando, FL 32804. To attend/register, families can sign up at www. east.orlandoscience.org/. Enrollment for the upcoming school year is now open. Applications received by Jan. 21, 2024, will be included in the lottery drawing. For more information on enrollment, open houses and the STEMfocused curriculum, please visit /www.east.orlandoscience.org/.
About Orlando Science Schools: Orlando Science Schools, a public charter school, is approved by the Orange County School Board as an elementary, middle and high school. The mission of OSS is to provide students a well-rounded education with special emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics “Expanding into East Orlando is the result of demand – as well (STEM) and Reading in the light of research-based, proven and as a testament to the success of our campuses in empowering innovative instructional methods in a stimulating environment. Orlando minds and enriching futures in Central Florida Since 2008,” said Science Schools serves grades K–12. For more information, visit www. Dr. Yalcin Akin, Orlando Science Schools’ executive director. “With orlandoscience.org. open enrollment available across grade levels K-6 for the first year, now is the ideal time for families who have been interested in a well-rounded education and STEM excellence and want to join the Orlando Science Schools System. We are eager to introduce our STEM-focused programs and innovative learning environment to even more families in Central Florida. All Orange County residents and families on the OSS waitlist are welcome to enroll.” Orlando Science Schools is hosting two open houses to highlight the school’s innovative learning environment and answer questions. The first open house will take place virtually on Saturday, Dec. 9 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. The second open house will take place on Saturday, Dec. 16 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the OSS Technology
Second Harvest Food Bank Receives Grant from Ford Motor Company Fund to Expand Access to Food Across Central Florida financial donors, volunteers and a caring, committed community, the food bank distributes 300,000 meals every day to a seven-county service area, which includes Brevard, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Seminole and Volusia. Feeding neighbors facing hunger is only the beginning. By investing in job training programs, advocating for access to nutritious foods, and inspiring our community to get involved, SHFBCF is leaning Forty-four million people in America, including more than 13 into the root causes of hunger and helping our neighbors thrive. With million children, face hunger. In Central Florida that’s one in eight support from the Central Florida community, Second Harvest Food Bank is feeding inspiration, change, achievement, health — and families facing individuals and one in five children. hunger. To learn more about SHFBCF, visit www.FeedHopeNow.org. “Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida continues to distribute enough food for 300,000 meals a day,” said Derrick About Ford Motor Company Fund Chubbs, President and CEO. “As the heightened demand for food As the global philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company, Ford Fund assistance persists, we are grateful for the support of Ford Fund in focuses on providing access to essential services, education for the making it easier to connect our neighbors facing hunger to fresh future of work and entrepreneurship opportunities for under-resourced and underrepresented communities. Ford Fund’s partnerships and and nutritious food needed to thrive.” programming are designed to be responsive to unique community needs, With this grant, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida ensuring people have equitable opportunities to move forward. Harnessing plans to expand its fleet with a vehicle to enhance its home delivery Ford’s scale, resources and mobility expertise, Ford Fund drives meaningful programs. The funding will impact neighbors with mobility issues, impact through grantmaking, Ford Resource and Engagement Centers food insecurity and at least one chronic illness by helping transport and employee volunteerism. For more information, visit www.fordfund. org or join us at @FordFund on Facebook, Instagram. nutritious meals that support positive health outcomes. A grant from Ford Motor Company Fund will support Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida in their efforts to expand access to fresh food in Central Florida. The $100,000 investment will be used towards scaling mobility solutions that bridge the gap between access to food and transportation.
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida is one of 10 partner food banks in the Feeding America® network to receive a mobility innovation grant from Ford Fund. The $1 million investment is dispersed amongst food banks in Ford’s plant cities. To learn more about the movement to end hunger in Central Florida, visit www.feedhopenow.org.
About Feeding America Feeding America is committed to an America where no one is hungry. We support tens of millions of people who experience food insecurity to get the food and resources they say they need to thrive as part of a nationwide network of food banks, statewide food bank associations, food pantries and meal programs. We also invest in innovative solutions to increase equitable access to nutritious food, advocate for legislation that improves food security and work to address factors that impact food security, such as health, cost of living and employment.
About Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida (SHFBCF) SHFBCF is a member of Feeding America – the largest charitable domestic We partner with people experiencing food insecurity, policymakers, hunger-relief organization in the United States. SHFBCF secures and organizations, and supporters, united with them in a movement to end distributes food and grocery products to more than 625 local nonprofit hunger. Visit FeedingAmerica.org. feeding partners throughout Central Florida. With the help of food and
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COMMUNITY Bill Cowles, Orange County’s Longest-Serving Supervisor of Elections, to Retire January 31, 2024 After more than 34 years of dedicated service to Orange County 219 precincts and served 363,000 registered voters in Orange voters, Bill Cowles, Supervisor of Elections, has announced County. As he leaves office, Cowles just gained approval to add 4 new precincts bringing the total to 259 and 793,460 his retirement, effective January 31, 2024. registered voters as of the end of November 2023. Cowles began his remarkable journey as Chief Deputy in 1989 under then-Supervisor Betty Carter. Elected as the Orange Supervisor Cowles has also navigated major recounts, County Supervisor of Elections in 1996, he has been re-elected including the Presidential election in 2000, the statewide in every election since, overseeing the fifth-largest county elections for Governor, U.S. Senate, and Commissioner of Agriculture in 2018, and the Board of County Commission elections office in the State of Florida. Seat 6 in 2022. Cowles stated, “It has been my honor and privilege to serve the citizens of Orange County for more than 34 years, first as Chief Supervisor Cowles has made sure to leave the voters of Orange Deputy for 7 years, followed by 27 years as Supervisor of Elections, County in the very capable hands. conducting a total of 96 County, State, Federal, and Municipal In his resignation letter to the Governor, Cowles reiterated the Elections over my tenure.” competency of his team, “I will greatly miss working with my He continued, “While I will miss the work tremendously, I am wonderful and dedicated staff who have always given 100 percent to looking forward to the next adventure, having more time to spend running efficient, fair, and accurate elections. I am so proud of the with family, traveling, and catching up on all of those experiences job they have done over the years. Leaving the Elections Office in that took a back seat when the duties of conducting an election were the capable hands of a team with a combined 425+ years of election experience is a source of great confidence.” priority.” Among his proudest accomplishments are the Voter Registration Helpline created in 1999 in partnership with local TV news outlets and his legacy project, Adopt-A-Precinct (AAP). The Adopt-A-Precinct program is a community partnership that allows organizations to serve their community, fundraise, and participate in the elections process. It began in 1998 with just one organization. Today, nearly 100 community organizations are currently signed up to participate in the fundraising program. Those groups currently manage 126 precincts and account for nearly 50% of the poll workers in Orange County. In 2022, over $336,735 was paid out to AdoptA-Precinct groups over the three countywide elections. This program was so successful that the Florida Legislature passed new legislation in 2002 requiring Supervisors of Elections across the state to develop similar relationships with the business community (Chapter 102.014 (6), Florida Statutes). Throughout his tenure, Cowles has seen his fair share of change [see attached timeline]. When first elected, he managed
Cowles has played a pivotal role in advancing election administration technology and cybersecurity. From paperbased voting machines in the 1990s to the implementation of Early Voting after the 2000 election, the switch from absentee to Vote-by-Mail and advanced cyber-technologies in the 2020s, he ensured Orange County stayed at the forefront of innovation, while always keeping a paper trail for Orange County voters – ballots in Orange County have always been paper with optical scan. Under his leadership, the Elections office upgraded the paper poll books to an electronic “e-poll book” designed and created in-house while preserving robust cybersecurity measures to protect voter registration databases. Celebrating a record of 96 administered elections after his final election in January, the House District 35 Special General, Bill Cowles has been a beacon of integrity, innovation, and service. Orange County citizens unite in their expression of gratitude for the indelible mark Bill Cowles leaves on the democratic fabric of our community.
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