and our community. As we soak up the sun and enjoy longer days, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the importance of family vacations, summer camps, and our beloved 4th of July celebrations. These traditions not only enrich our lives but also strengthen the fabric of our community here in Avalon Park.
One of my favorite parts of summer is the opportunity to take family vacations. Growing up, our family trips were the highlight of the year, filled with adventures and quality time together. These experiences were pivotal in shaping my appreciation for exploring new places and creating lasting memories. Today, I continue this tradition with my own family, whether it’s a beach getaway, a mountain retreat, or exploring a new city. These moments away from the daily grind allow us to reconnect, recharge, and enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed setting.
Summer camps are another cherished tradition. They offer children the chance to learn new skills,
come back with stories of their adventures. Camps provide a safe and fun environment for kids to grow and discover themselves, which is why I’m so passionate about supporting local summer camp programs.
No summer would be complete without our vibrant 4th of July celebrations. This holiday is a cornerstone of American tradition, and here in Avalon Park, we celebrate it with gusto. Our 4th of July festivities start with a patriotic 5K and continue throughout the day with activities like a bike parade, vendor stalls, delicious food, and an apple-pie bake-off that brings out the best bakers in town. And the evening ends with a fireworks display that I would say is the best in town!
At Avalon Park, our mission is to create communities where traditions like these can flourish. When designing our towns, we prioritize spaces and amenities that encourage interaction and foster a strong sense of community. Parks, playgrounds, and community centers are integral parts of our planning, as they provide the perfect settings for families to gather, children to play, and neighbors to connect. These traditions and communal activities are what transform a collection of houses into a thriving, supportive community.
As we dive into July, I encourage everyone to embrace and participate in these summer traditions. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, sending your kids to camp, or joining in the 4th of July festivities, these activities help us create a sense of place and belonging. They remind us of the importance of community and the joy of celebrating these opportunities together.
Thank you for making Avalon Park a part of your summer tradition.
From the Desk of Commissioner
Maribel Gomez Cordero
Happy July!
July 4th is Independence Day, a holiday on which we celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the enduring values it represents. This year marks 248 years since the Declaration was signed, a momentous event that set the course for a nation built on the principles of Liberty, Freedom, and Justice for all. While much has changed over the many years since then, we remain committed to these core ideals. Across the United States, people commemorate this day with fireworks, parades, and gatherings, reflecting on the sacrifices made for our independence and the ongoing efforts to uphold the freedoms the nation’s founding fathers fought for.
With OCPS reopening its schools in August, now is a good time to start preparing for the return to school. On July 20th starting at 11am, I will be hosting a back-to-school event at the Meadow Woods Recreation Center (1751 Rhode Island Woods Circle, Orlando, FL 32824). This event will be
focused on High Schoolers and will be open only to students from the four High Schools in District 4 (Lake Nona High School, Timber Creek High School, Cypress Creek High School, and Innovation High School) We will be giving away backpacks, notebooks, calculators, and other school supplies at this event as well as having various items to be given away in raffles. Additionally, there will be tables for different County and local resources to provide information and assistance to attendees. Registration will be required for this event. If you would like more information or would like to register for this event, please call my office at 407-836-7043.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, or if you would like to receive my newsletter, you can email me at district4@ocfl.net or call my office at 407-836-5881. You can also meet me in person at one of my two satellite office locations. On the first Wednesdays of the month, you can meet me at the East Orange Community Center (12050 E Colonial Dr) or on the Third Wednesdays of the month at the Meadow Woods Recreation Center (1751 Rhode Island Woods Cir). My time at both locations is from 10am to 12pm. Thank you again!
Finally, It’s Back: Florida Hometown Heros
If You’re A First Time Home Buyer and You Want To Stop Wasting Your Money On Rent, This Could Be The Best News You’ll Get All Year. Read On….
EFFECTIVE NOW (Florida Housing Finance Corporation.)
The Hometown Heroes (HTH) Housing Program makes housing affordable for eligible “frontline” workers, educators, police officers, healthcare providers, childcare, firefighters, nurses, military personnel, and others by providing down payment and closing cost assistance to qualified homebuyers. The Florida Hometown Heroes Loan Program offers a lower first mortgage rate AND additional special benefits to those who currently serve their communities and those who have served and continue to serve their country.
THE PROGRAM OVERVIEW:
• 5% Of the Total Loan Amount Capped at $25,000, Use Any Excess to reduce LTV.
• 30 Year Term, 0%, Non-Amortizing, No Monthly Payments
• REPAYABLE: When the Borrower Sells, Refinances, Transfers the Deed, or Vacates as their primary residence.
WHAT ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION IS REQUIRED?
• Fully executed HTH Loan Program Attestation from borrower(s)
• Copy of State of Florida License or Certification
• Copy of VOE (Verification of Full Time Employment.)
TO BE ELIGIBLE YOU MUST:
• Get your first mortgage with Florida Housing in order to obtain DPA
• Minimum Credit Score is 640
• Homebuyer Education is required.
• Borrower must be working FULL time in the occupation they hold license/ certification.
ELIGIBLE TYPES OF HOMES:
• Single Family Homes, Existing or Under Construction By A
Builder.
• Town Homes and Condos.
Clicking The Link Below Will Direct You To The Home Town Heroes APPLICATION WIZARD. https://apps.floridahousing.org/StandAlone/FTHBWizard
ONE LAST THING. You must speak with a loan officer before taking any HomeOwner Education Course. Your loan officer will direct you to your correct course.
You’re welcome to meet me, call me or email me with any other questions you might have or to receive a copy of the Home Town Heroes HandBook.
Secure Your Future Beyond Social Security and Medicare With This Guide
Financial independence in your later years isn’t just a dream—it’s a feasible goal with the right strategies. Many people rely on Social Security and Medicare as their primary safety nets for retirement and healthcare. However, to ensure a comfortable and secure lifestyle, you must go beyond these basics and take proactive steps towards building substantial financial health. In this article, courtesy of Encore at Avalon Park, we’ll explore essential strategies that can significantly enhance your financial stability without solely depending on government programs.
Prioritize Your Budgeting
To lay a solid foundation for your financial future, start with a detailed and disciplined budget. Evaluate your current spending and identify areas where you can cut back. This allows you to allocate more funds toward savings and investments. Consistently tracking your expenses also helps you avoid overspending and ensures that you are always aware of your financial status, which is crucial for making informed decisions about your money.
Understand Long-Term Care Costs
It’s essential to research the costs of assisted living facilities in your area as part of your retirement planning. Investigate what financial requirements you might face if you choose or need to move into such a facility. Look into reviews and detailed reports of local facilities to understand the quality of care provided and the associated costs. This knowledge will enable you to plan effectively and ensure you can afford the care you deserve.
Set Ambitious Savings Goals
The key to accumulating wealth over time is to set and diligently work towards aggressive savings goals. Determine the amount you need to save to maintain your desired lifestyle in retirement and create a monthly savings plan to meet this target. Consider automating your savings to ensure you consistently set aside a portion of your income, making it easier to reach your financial goals without the temptation to spend impulsively.
Diversify Your Investment Portfolio
Investing in diversified funds is a vital strategy for mitigating risks and enhancing the potential for returns. Spread your investments across various asset classes, including stocks, bonds, and real estate, to protect against market volatility. Regularly review and adjust your portfolio to maintain a balance that aligns with your risk tolerance and retirement timeline, ensuring that your investments are working optimally for you.
Optimize Your Insurance Coverage
Insurance is a critical tool for protecting against unforeseen financial shocks that could derail your financial plans. Evaluate your needs for health, life, and long-term care insurance, and ensure that your coverage meets your requirements without overpaying for unnecessary benefits. Wise use of insurance can save you substantial amounts of money in the long run and provide peace of mind.
Leverage Tax Advantages
Maximizing tax-advantaged accounts such as IRAs and 401(k)s can significantly increase your savings. These accounts not only reduce your taxable income but also allow your investments to grow tax-free or taxdeferred. Familiarize yourself with the limits and rules of each type of account and make full use of them to enhance your financial portfolio’s growth potential. Regularly review and adjust your contributions to ensure you are taking full advantage of the benefits these accounts offer.
Renegotiate Regular Expenses
Regularly revisiting and renegotiating your existing contracts for cable, phone, internet, and even your electric bill can lead to substantial savings. Service providers often have promotions or plans that could reduce your costs significantly. Don’t hesitate to negotiate or switch providers to take advantage of the best rates and services, freeing up more money for savings and investment.
Securing your financial future requires thoughtful planning and proactive steps. By prioritizing budgeting, maximizing your savings, diversifying your investments, wisely utilizing insurance, taking advantage of tax breaks, understanding long-term care costs, and renegotiating fixed expenses, you can build a financial buffer that doesn’t rely solely on Social Security or Medicare. Start today to ensure a secure and comfortable tomorrow, where your financial health is in your control, providing you with the freedom and security to enjoy your retirement years.
In Touch Health & Wellness Center
Located in the heart of Downtown Avalon Park, In Touch Health and Wellness Center stands out as a beacon of holistic health and comprehensive care. In Touch Health and Wellness Center is a Midwife-Led office specializing in Primary Care, Intravenous Therapy, Community Health, Wellness for the family, Botox and Weight Loss.
Services are provided by Dr. Kimberly Navarro, CNM, WHNP-BC, PhD, who is a certified Autonomous Advanced Practice Nurse in the state of Florida. She is also licensed in California and New Jersey. Kimberly is double board certified as a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Nurse Midwife. She operates based on the midwifery model of care, which is patient-centered care and holistic care. Kimberly aims to make her clients feel seen, heard and valued. In addition to the health and wellness services, Kimberly offers FREE vaccines to children with Medicaid and no health insurance. Ask about the Vaccines For Children program. By popular demand, Semaglutide and Tirzepatide weight loss injections are available at $50 per injection of Semaglutide and $75 per injection of Tirzepatide. Single vitamin injections such as D3 or B12 are $30 each. Vitamin cocktails are offered starting at $50 per infusion. The space at In Touch Health and Wellness Center offers a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere with comfortable seating and a spectacular360 view of Downtown Avalon Park. Come relax and prioritize your self-care goals at In Touch Health and Wellness Center today.
COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES
- Primary Care for Women of all ages
- Vitamin infusions for the family
- Pregnancy Care
- Homebirth only for self-pay
- IV therapy in pregnancy for relief of morning sickness, fatigue, dehydration, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth
- Breastfeeding support
- Newborn Care for first 3 months
- Preventative Care such as yearly physicals, school physicals, well woman exams
- Care for acute illnesses such as cold and flu symptoms, sinus infections, cough, ear pain, sore throat, UTI, vaginal infections
For more information, visit their website at In Touch Health and Wellness Center and discover how they can help you achieve optimal health and wellness.
The office is located at 13001 Founders Square Drive, 2nd floor, Suite 203 Orlando Florida 32828. To call for an appointment, Kimberly can be reached directly at 689-244-0059. These low prices won’t last long, so take advantage of the Summer Sale today!
True strength lies in the things you love, and whosoever loves much performs much, and can accomplish much, and what is done in love is done well. -Vincent Van Gogh
In Touch Health and Wellness Center 689-244-0059 midwifenavarro@gmail.com
13001 Founder’s Square Drive, St. 203, 2nd Floor Orlando, FL 32828 (Located in The 5th Floor Orlando Annex)
LEARN
July Jingles: Sparking Summer Reading with Christmas in July
July is filled with sun, fireworks, and jingle bells! This month is the perfect time to celebrate holiday joy and read Christmas stories. Children who read with their parents often develop a lifelong love of reading. They are more likely to see reading as a pleasurable activity rather than a chore. Here are tips and book recommendations to keep your children excited about reading this month. Let us make this July a Christmas to remember. Tips for Encouraging Summer Reading in July:
1. Create a Festive Reading Space: Decorate a corner of your home with summer and Christmas-themed decorations to make the reading time special.
2. Read Aloud Together: Find your child’s favorite Christmas stories and read them together. Add more fun to the read-aloud by wearing your favorite family Christmas pajamas.
3. Mix it Up with Activities: Combine reading with fun activities like drawing scenes from the book or creating a fun-filled family play about the story.
4. Visit the Library: Check out your local library for summer reading programs and check out books that you and your child can read together.
Book Recommendations for Kindergarten- 3rd Grade for Christmas in July:
“Llama Llama Holiday Drama” by Anna Dewdney “Pete the Cat Saves Christmas” by Eric Litwin and James Dean “Olive, the Other Reindeer” by Vivian Walsh
“How to Catch an Elf” by Adam Wallace
“Arthur’s Christmas” by Marc Brown
“The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree” by Gloria Houston
Join me this month for more Christmas in July stories for kindergarten through third-grade students at the Avalon Arts and Culture Center on the following dates:
Christmas in July Story Schedule:
July 4th “Merry Christmas Peanut!” by Terry Boarder 5:30 pm and 6:30 pm
July 20th “The Gingerbread on the Loose” by Laura Murray 5:30 pm and 6:30 pm
On Tuesdays at 10:30 am
July 23 “We Wish for a Monster Christmas” by Sue Fliess
July 30 “Tough Cookie, A Christmas Story” by Edward Hemingway
Happy Reading!
Unlock Your Potential with Personalized Tutoring Services
Are you looking to enhance your skills or explore new creative avenues? I offer personalized tutoring services in three areas:
K-5 Reading Tutoring: Tailored sessions to improve reading skills for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Focus on comprehension, fluency, phonics, and vocabulary development. Fun and engaging activities to foster a love for reading.
Graphic Design with Canva: Learn how to create stunning graphics, flyers, social media posts, and more using Canva. Master text effects, image editing, and layout design. Discover the power of visual communication for personal and professional projects.
Learn Your Cricut: Get hands-on guidance with your Cricut machine. Learn how to design and cut custom projects, from vinyl decals to greeting cards. Explore creative possibilities with this versatile cutting tool.
Tammy Davis, M.A.T
Contact creativetutorstudio@gmail.com or 321-430-4061.
Avalon Summer Games Reading Challenge: Explore a World of Sports!
Students in K-3rd grade are invited to dive into the thrilling world of sports through the Avalon Summer Games Reading Challenge! Students can choose from a variety of sports-themed books, including soccer, swimming, gymnastics, basketball, track and field, volleyball, and the increasingly popular pickleball. Discover inspiring stories about athletes, learn fun facts about different sports, and get motivated to stay active and engaged this summer. With so many exciting sports to explore, there’s something for everyone. There will be winners and prizes for each grade group K-1st grade and 2nd-3rd grade.
Happy reading and let the games begin!
Dates: July 26 - August 14
How to Participate
1. Sign Up:
• Pick up a reading log at the Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center (ACC) July 26, Saturday between 10:00 am - 4:00 pm.
2. Choose Your Books:
• Select any sport-related books that interest you. You can read books about soccer, swimming, gymnastics, basketball, track and field, volleyball, pickleball, and more!
3. Read:
• Read as many sport-related books as you can between July 26 and August 14.
4. Log Your Reading:
• Record each book you read in your reading log. Include the date, title, author, sport, and a parent’s signature.
• Fill out the reading log completely.
5. Submit Your Reading Log:
• Turn in your completed reading log on Wednesday, August 14, between 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm at the Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center (ACC).
Prizes and Awards
• There will be two winners:
• One from the Kindergarten through 1st-grade group.
• One from the 2nd through 3rd-grade group.
• Winners will receive a prize! Winners will be announced at noon on August 16 (Friday) at ACC.
Tips for Success
• Read Daily: Set aside time each day to read. Even 15-20 minutes can make a big difference.
• Explore Different Sports: Try reading about various sports to expand your knowledge and find new interests.
• Use Online Resources: Take advantage of free online reading platforms like Epic!, Storyline Online, and TumbleBook Library.
• Visit the Library: Your local library can help you find sport-related books and provide recommendations.
Avalon Elementary Updates!
The Beanstack Summer Reading Challenge is in full swing! The challenge is open until August 1st. To complete the challenge, our Mariners need to read and log 1,000 minutes. Our school goal is 160,000 minutes all together. Keep reading, Mariners!
This year’s PTO Fall Carnival will be the PTO’s main fundraising event of the year. If you own a business, or know someone who owns a business, and would like to support our carnival, please click on the link: https://forms.gle/aGJrrVxxz5cd64GB7 It will take you right to the 2024 PTO Fall Carnival interest form. The PTO will be in touch!
Meet the Teacher will be on Thursday, August 8 from 5 – 7 pm with a sensory-friendly option from 3 – 4:30 pm for our Mariners in our ASD self-contained units. We look forward to seeing our Mariners back aboard the S.S. Avalon for Meet the Teacher! The first day of school is Monday, August 12th!
See you there, Mariners!
Orlando Science Charter School East Campus Announces Leadership Team
Orlando Science Schools (OSS), a tuition-free public charter school system that offers a unique blend of well-rounded learning and STEM excellence opportunities, recently named its leadership team for the new K-8 East Orlando campus, opening in August for the 2024-2025 school year. The new campus will be led by Principal Eric Salgado.
Salgado brings 20 years of experience working as an educator and administrator at the campus and district level – including 4 years with OSS, where he previously served as the Director of Teaching and Learning. Mr. Salgado’s commitment to leadership is set to inspire both students and staff. The school also appointed Christina Stangl as its Assistant Principal, Jasmin Michaud as its Curriculum and Testing Coordinator, and Rachel Knight as its Dean of Students.
“Each member of the East Orlando campus leadership team has served in previous roles within our school system,” said Yalcin Akin, PhD, Executive Director, Orlando-Seminole-Osceola Science Charter Schools. “We are thrilled to welcome these extraordinary leaders to spearhead our newest initiatives. With their previous experience at Orlando Science Schools, combined expertise, enthusiasm and innovative spirit our school will continue to thrive and provide an exceptional educational experience for our students.”
“I am confident that this coming year will be filled with exciting opportunities, growth and meaningful connections at our new campus,” said Eric Salgado, Principal of Orlando Science School East Campus. “I look forward to collaborating, celebrating achievements, and supporting our team, students and families as we embark on this new journey.”
Salgado, a resident of Orlando, graduated from Florida Atlantic University with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in educational leadership.
The new East Orlando campus is located at 10250 University Blvd. in Orlando. To learn more, 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 (STEM) and Reading in the light of research-based, proven and innovative instructional methods in a stimulating environment. Orlando Science Schools serves grades K–12. For more information, visit www.orlandoscience.org
WORK
Beyond the Magic: Orlando as a Beacon for Business Innovation and Growth
Orlando, Florida, emerges as a top destination for entrepreneurs and established businesses seeking growth and opportunity. The city’s vibrant economy and supportive policies create a nurturing environment for business ventures.
With its diverse industries and innovative spirit, Orlando attracts a broad spectrum of companies. Lower living costs and a welcoming community further sweeten the deal for business owners considering this dynamic locale. The 5th Floor shares more:
Vibrant Economic Environment
Orlando’s business environment is dynamic and supportive. The city boasts a diverse economy with thriving tourism, technology, healthcare, and finance industries. Local government initiatives provide ample support for new and existing businesses, offering various incentives, tax breaks, and grants.
A robust infrastructure, including state-of-the-art facilities and advanced technology, enhances business operations. With a strong emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship, Orlando fosters a conducive environment for business growth.
Affordable Living Costs
The cost of living in Orlando is relatively lower than other major metropolitan areas. Housing options range from affordable apartments to luxurious estates, catering to different preferences and budgets. Utility costs, groceries, and healthcare are also reasonably priced, contributing to a lower overall cost of living.
This affordability extends to commercial real estate, where you can find competitively priced office spaces, retail locations, and industrial properties. Lower operational costs mean you can allocate more resources to growing your business.
Welcoming Community Spirit
Orlando’s diverse and inclusive community offers a welcoming environment for newcomers. The city is known for its friendly residents and a strong sense of community. Networking opportunities abound, with numerous business associations, chambers of commerce, and networking groups facilitating connections and collaborations.
Community events, local festivals, and cultural celebrations provide excellent platforms for engaging with other business owners and potential customers. This supportive community spirit can significantly enhance your business’s visibility and reputation.
Exceptional Quality of Life
Orlando offers an excellent quality of life that can attract top talent to your
business. The city is renowned for its pleasant climate, warm weather year-round, and plenty of sunshine. Recreational opportunities are abundant, from world-famous theme parks to beautiful parks and lakes.
The vibrant arts and culture scene and diverse dining and entertainment options ensure a high standard of living. Quality healthcare facilities and top-rated educational institutions add to the city’s appeal, making it an attractive place to live and work.
Quick-Start Business Checklist
Starting your Orlando business begins with comprehensive market research to pinpoint potential customers and rivals. Craft a detailed business plan, charting your path from initial goals to financial expectations. Obtain the necessary permits and licenses, and select a location that benefits your operation.
Incorporate Adobe Acrobat for business to streamline document workflows, bolster security, and boost efficiency. Create a dynamic marketing plan to draw in clientele and establish a dependable network for supplies and collaborations. Wrap up with hiring and training a competent team, and keep a quick-start checklist handy to ensure nothing is overlooked.
Highly Educated
Workforce
Orlando is home to a well-educated and skilled workforce, thanks to the presence of renowned educational institutions. The University of Central Florida, one of the largest universities in the nation, offers a wide range of programs that produce graduates ready to enter the workforce.
Specialized training centers and vocational schools provide additional skilled labor in various fields. The city’s emphasis on education and continuous learning ensures a steady supply of talented individuals with the latest skills and knowledge. This educated workforce is a significant asset for any business, providing the expertise needed to drive innovation and success.
Wrapping Up
Orlando, Florida, stands out as an exceptional place to start or relocate a business. The city’s vibrant economic environment, affordable living costs, welcoming community, high quality of life, and access to a skilled workforce create a compelling case for entrepreneurs and companies. By leveraging these advantages, you can position your business for growth and success in one of the country’s most dynamic and supportive business environments.
Unlock your business potential at The 5th Floor, where flexible workspaces, private offices, and meeting rooms cater to your every need.
Fun Facts About the 4th of July
By: Angie Laucirica, Leo Yong, Yusmari Romero
To many, the Fourth of July means hotdogs and fireworks. However, the meaning goes great beyond barbeques and parties. This holiday symbolizes our freedom and independence as a nation. We often take for granted the privilege of being born in a country that freedom is a given. The Fourth of July is the day our nation was born, the day that enabled us to be where we are today. So celebrate, have fun! But don’t forget the meaning behind it all.
Here are some fun facts:
1. We did not actually declare independence on the 4th of July. The official vote actually took place two days before 4th of July 1776 and the “Declaration” was published on papers on July 4th.
2. According to the National Sausage and Hot Dog Council (NHDSC) Americans are expected to eat 150 million hot dogs over the July 4th holiday alone. If you have not watched the Nathan’s Hotdog
eating contest on TV, watch it this year. World Champion Joey Chestnut currently holds the title of hot dog-eating world champion after setting a new world record of 76 hot dogs and buns in 2021.
3. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 10,200 fireworks-related injuries in 2022. 73 percent of those injuries occurred during the one month surrounding the July 4th holiday. Have fun but stay safe.
At Avalon Mail Center, we support the residents, students and businesses of Avalon Park in a wide range of services from mailing, printing, notary & apostille services, student work-study programs, creating Free Individual Wills & POA. We are your Authorized Business Center for UPS, Fedex, USPS and DHL. Come visit us at 3564 Avalon Park E Blvd, Ste 1, just across Publix. –avalonmailcenter.com
PLAY
DINING
Coming together to create a healthy community
ARTS & CULTURE CORNER
COMMUNITY CORNER
Important: Orange County Supervisor of Elections Reminds Voters About Changes to Vote-By-Mail
The Orange County Supervisor of Elections reminds voters that vote-by-mail requests expire after each federal general election cycle. Therefore, all vote-by-mail requests expired on Dec. 31, 2022.
In 2021 Florida law changed and as a result, voters wishing to vote by mail in the upcoming August Primary Election must submit their request no later than 5 p.m. on Thursday, August 8, 2024.
As of 8:03 a.m. on June 26th 74,974 Orange County voters have requested a vote-by-mail ballot for the August Primary Election. This is less than half the number who requested vote-by-mail in 2022 (195,935) and lower than in 2020 (214,555).
Additionally, the deadline to switch parties or to register to vote in the August Primary Election is Monday, July 22, 2024.
“We are pleased to offer many ways for voters to make their voices heard from vote-by-mail to early voting to local precincts on election day,” said Orange County Supervisor of Elections Glen Gilzean. “This year we have seen a sharp drop in the number of people requesting vote-by-mail
ballots and while more people may be opting to vote in person, we want to make sure any voter who wants to vote by mail knows the approaching deadlines for the primary.”
For more information on vote-by-mail please click on the link below.
Orange County Supervisor of Elections Affirms Placement of OCPS Half-Cent Sales Tax on November Ballot
The Orange County Board of County Commissioners met on April 30, 2024, and unanimously voted to place the Orange County Schools half-cent sales tax on the November ballot. The election will allow voters of Orange County to continue the half-cent sales tax to continue funding schools.
A copy of the general ballot was sent to the Orange County Supervisor of Elections Office on May 24, 2024, and processed by the office for placement on the November ballot on the morning of June 6, 2024. The office has subsequently begun drafting the placement of the half-cent sales tax on the ballot ahead of November.
The half-cent sales tax for OCPS is not under legal review, indeed it will be on the November ballot as requested.
“As a former school member, I find it disappointing that some people are advancing the false notion that the school’s half-cent sales tax is under legal review and may not be on the November ballot. Let me assure you the sales tax measure will be on the November ballot and the voters of Orange County will be able to make their voices heard on this important issue,” said Orange County Supervisor of Elections Glen Gilzean.
Orlando Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Florida continues to be ranked one of the worst states in the country in which to be a cyclist. A study by The Governors Highway Safety Association has placed it at the very top of the list of the most dangerous places in which to ride a bike for transportation. In fact, the annual death toll for bicyclists in Florida is 110 people. On top of that, hundreds more suffer injuries and wind up in the hospital after being hit by a car or truck while riding their bike. Even more tragic than these numbers is the fact that in any given year, more than half of these bicycle accident victims are children.
If an automobile recently hit you while you were riding your bike, you might be entitled to financial compensation. An Orlando bicycle accident lawyer could review what happened to you to see if you have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit.
Reasons for a Bike Collision
The driver of a motor vehicle has a responsibility to drive with care. The most common “reason” we hear from drivers after a car-bike collision is that they did not see the bike. However, that is not a valid an excuse.
Unsafe properties can also lead to injury: it is the responsibility of property owners to maintain their property in a reasonably safe condition. This may include installing signage to warn of hazards, placing a fence around a property, or repairing and maintaining the property.
Defective Bicycles
A defect in the bike may also have played a part in the accident. Sometimes there is a product defect in a critical part of the bike that finally breaks, causing a crash. This can be equally deadly, especially if the biker is traveling at a high speed at the time. The U.S. Consumer Safety Commission has listed recalls on such things as cable stops, handlebars, unsafe spoke protector disks, bicycle suspension forks, and front trays
Possible Recoverable Damages in an Orlando Bike Crash Claim
If a defendant’s carelessness, recklessness, or criminal conduct causes a bicycle accident, that defendant could be held liable for the claimant’s resulting financial and emotional losses. This compensation takes the form of economic, non-economic, and (occasionally) punitive damages
Economic Damages
A claimant could pursue economic damages from the person responsible for causing the crash. Economic damages are easy to quantify with a clear dollar value, and some examples include:
- Current and future medical bills
- Lost past earnings resulting from a claimant’s inability to work
- Loss of future earnings if the injury prevents them from returning to their job
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation bills
- Emotional and psychological therapy bills
Orlando attorneys have handled many bike accident claims
and know how to help someone search for proof of their economic losses. They also have experience helping claimants quantify expected future losses, which can be a factor in incidents where a cyclist sustained lasting brain damage.
For example, they can review previous pay stubs, look at the claimant’s level of education and experience, consider the salaries of other professionals in the same field, and study projections to determine a reasonable value for their anticipated lost income. A knowledgeable attorney could also meet with local medical experts to review a patient’s medical records and come up with a value of anticipated healthcare needs.
NON-ECONOMIC DAMAGES
Non-economic damages are more subjective in nature and less quantifiable. These losses are more personal and unique to each individual claimant. A court cannot look at non-economic damages and easily put a value on the claim by looking at a chart; instead, they need to consider each individual claim. Non-economic damages include the following:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of enjoyment of life
A legal professional could help someone calculate the true value of their non-economic losses by helping show the court how their injuries have affected their life.
Punitive Damages
In limited circumstances, Orlando courts will also award punitive damages to claimants in order to punish a defendant’s particularly egregious, malicious, or reckless behavior. An Orlando bicycle accident attorney could review the facts of the case to see if punitive damages could be available.
Possible Limitations on Recovery in Orlando
Fortunately, there are no statutory limits on the recovery of damages in Florida. However, an Orlando court could reduce the damages award if they determine that the claimant was partially responsible for the crash. Florida operates with a modified comparative negligence standard, which means that an injured party can still collect damages even if they bear some responsibility. The damages they collect would be reduced in proportion to their degree of fault – unless it is over 50%, in which case they can recover nothing.
For example, if a reckless drunk driver crashed into a cyclist who was making an illegal turn, the court might decide that the driver was 60% to blame, while the cyclist was 40% at fault. In that situation, the court might award the cyclist only 60% of their anticipated damages.
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