KEEPING THE NEWS LOCAL & THE COMMUNITY CONNECTED.
VOLUME 2 EDITION 7
JULY 2021
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Fourth of July in Avalon Park Bike Parade, Apple Pie Bake-Off, Porch Decorating Contest
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COMMUNITY UPDATES
Celebrate Independence Day at the annual Avalon Park Fourth of July Festival presented by AdventHealth on Sunday, July 4th, 5-9 pm. This celebration is the perfect event to kick-off the summer fun and will feature face painters, caricature artists, a wet/dry bounce park, community performances, an apple pie bake-off, bike parade and fireworks at 9 p.m.
orate bikes, strollers and wagons and head to the Avalon Park YMCA at 5:30 pm for the Annual Bike Parade around Avalon Lake. Participants are encouraged to register online. Prizes will be awarded for Most Patriotic and Best Group.
Avalon Park residents are also encouraged to showcase their patriotic spirit all month by participating in the Porch The day-long celebration begins at Decorating Contest. 8 a.m. with the Annual Avalon Park Foundation Firecracker 5K. Run, jog, As always there are opportunities for walk, stroll or roll through Downtown the community participate with a comAvalon Park at this festive family fun munity performance by filling out the run all while supporting the grants and Performance Request, set up a Vendors scholarship programs provided by the Booth or even showcase your business Avalon Park Foundation. Online regis- with a sponsorship. tration is now live here and the first 300 participants will receive a commemora- Thank you to the sponsors that make tive patriotic medal. this event possible: Avalon Park Group, AdventHealth, Leland Management, Want to showcase your baking skills? Avalon Park POA and Avalon Park Challenge 2-time bake-off winner, COA. Courtney Englert in the Apple Pie BakeOff. Pre-register online here. Prizes will For more information on this and other be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place. Avalon Park Events visit AvalonPark. com or call 407-658-6565. Get the whole family together to dec-
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Coffee Hour with BEAT
I do not know, and nobody really can know for sure. However, I am absolutely convinced that real estate prices in central Florida will continue to increase substantially over the next 25 years, well past 2046! That means that if my sense is correct, and you are 30 years old today and own a home with a current value of $400,000, the value of In March 2005 I pubthat home when you lished a Coffee Hour turn 55 will be well over with Beat with the title $1 Million. However, “Homebuyer Beware,” where I warned readers this will not likely happen in a straight line about buying a home over the next 25 years they could not afford. and at times, your home To me, the writing was may have a lower value on the wall, and I foresaw a crash on the hous- in the future than today. ing market long before I continue to be very opsome of the famous economists had the same timistic for central Florida in the long run. As a idea. matter of fact, my group of companies has decidShortly after that preed to concentrate investdiction, the crash on the housing market did ing in real estate in central Florida. Selling our happen in 2007-08 and following. The housing real estate investments in Australia, Canada, bubble burst triggered China and Indonesia, we many to reach out, including a Swiss reporter, have shifted a significant who had discovered my portion of our focus to 2005 article and question the over 10,000 acres of why I made such a pre- land we own in central Florida. diction. With more than 30 years of experience as a real estate entrepreneur in central Florida and around the globe, I believe that I’ve developed a sense for the markets. And as of late, the current state of the housing market, interest rates and economy have people asking, “Will there be another crash like in 2007? Does it not feel like 2006? Will there be a recession? Will there be hyperinflation? Etc.”
HOWEVER, land, home and other prices have increased dramatically over the last year. Caution is always advised when the sky is the limit, although I do not see any reason for a housing price crash at this time in central Florida. In 2006 many homebuyers bought single-family homes for speculation reasons only. This is not the case today. As a matter of fact, there is presently a shortage of
homes all over the United States. There are other forces working, this time I do not think Florida’s economy and state of the housing market will cause a crash, but if tomorrow a large bank in Europe or Asia (and there are several larger than Lehman Brothers with thin capital) fails, and government, wherever it is, does not come to aid in time, then all bets could be off, as we saw in 2008-09. Florida historically and continues to be a fertile place for speculation. If it is too good to be true, we usually are in. So, I urge you to please not speculate with your home, the place you raise your family. It is not primarily an investment, it is a capital good, which you need to be able to afford in good and challenging times. Do not finance shortterm, because of lower interest rates and amortization. These loans are not made for people who cannot afford longterm rates and other conditions.
times renting your home or apartment is financially a better choice, particularly in a volatile market environment. For instance, if you are at retirement age, it may be wiser not to buy a residence, you want to stay flexible. Whether you need to quickly transition to a residential solution with less upkeep and more care like an independent living community or assisted living community or want the flexibility to travel, you do not want to be forced to sell your home at the wrong time in the market, because of another pressing need. Home prices will go up over the next 25 years, I am convinced, but they can as well go down at times. So, my caution from 2005, Homebuyer Beware, remains true, but for different reasons. Do not speculate with your home, purchase within your means and if you cannot, then rent! Happy 4th of July from My Family to Yours!
While ownership of a home is part of the American Dream, many
GET IN TOUCH - Have an inclusion for the Avalon Park Sun? Email: info@AvalonParkSun.com - Editorial Staff: Publisher: Beat Kahli Copy Editor: Stephanie Lerret Graphic & Layout Editor: Kenzie Farrish 407.658.6565 3801 Avalon Park East Blvd. #400 Orlando, FL 32828
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From the Desk of Commissioner
Maribel Gomez Cordero I want to start by wishing each one of you a very warm and Happy July 4th to all the residents of District 4. This year, we thankfully get to experience a safer and social Independence Day, so I wish you enjoy the most memorable celebrations with your loved ones. My thoughts and prayers are with those who continue to fight for our freedom near and far. The #IGotMyShot mobile vaccination trailer continues to visit neighborhoods and businesses throughout Orange County with no appointments needed. Both Pfizer and the Johnson & Johnson vaccines will be offered for individuals 12+ while supplies last. If you received your first dose of Pfizer at a different location, you can receive your second dose at the #IGotMyShot mobile vaccination trailer (bring your vaccination card). Where will the #IGotMyShot mobile vaccination trailer be next? Check out ocfl.net/VaccineSites for more information.
Barnett Park testing and vaccination services have been extended to July 31. Remember that transportation options for individuals 60+ are being provided by LYNX. As a county, we are doing a great job of being vaccinated. We are now over 50% of the way, let’s continue to spread the word! Orange County has received $135 million from the federal government for the American Rescue Plan. The expenditure categories are business assistance, social & community services, public health & safety, infrastructure opportunities and revenue recovery investments. Highlights include $41 million for social and community service programs, $7 million for adult and youth mental health programs, and a much-needed $32 million for business assistance. 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.
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Florida Day Trips for the Summer
The first thing that comes to mind when thinking about things to do in Florida are the theme parks, but did you know there are many other enjoyable destinations that can be reached all within a day’s time? Here is a list of 5 of these places, and why they’re worth checking out! 1. The Salvador Dalí of New Urbanism and Museum in Tampa dazzling beaches. From its quaint local shops Nested in St. Petersburg, and restaurants to clear, the Dalí museum is a blue water, Seaside feels wonderful place to visit like a little utopia, perfor art lovers and others fect for relaxing and alike. This museum has soaking up the Florida the largest collection sun. of Dalí’s work (outside of Europe!) as well as 3. Wakulla Springs near beautiful gardens and Tallahassee special exhibits. You are guaranteed to see some- Another film location— thing breathtaking at The Creature from this museum! the Black Lagoon—is Wakulla Springs near 2. The Beaches in Sea- Tallahassee. Wakulla is side one of the biggest and deepest natural springs Perhaps best known for in Florida, filled with being the shooting lo- crisp, cool water. Encation of the 1998 film joy taking a dip in the The Truman Show, Sea- spring, a jungle cruise side, located in Destin, tour to discover the nais an incredible display tive wildlife, or staying
at the historic lodge located within the park. It’s less than 20 miles south of Tallahassee, so a trip to Florida’s capital city can be added to your itinerary! 4. St. Augustine
Aside from the theme parks, the Everglades is perhaps the most wellknown Floridian destination, but have you ever been? Take an airboat ride and explore the nation’s third largest national park and all of the native and endangered species and wildlife within. And because it’s in South Florida, the city of Miami is worth checking out too, from its art districts to the zoo!
Consider visiting St. Augustine, the country’s oldest city! Take a guided tour to see all the greatest landmarks, such as the Castillo de San Marcos and the famed Fountain of Youth. There are also By: Raven Halle premium outlets to get your shopping fix, and the World Golf Village is close by for golfing aficionados. 5. Everglades National Park in Miami
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Finding Your Circle of Seniors
As adults get older, the opportunity to make new friends tends to become increasingly more difficult. Afterall, devoting years to their careers or establishing a family can force many adults to put their friendships on the backburner. By the time they are ready to forge new friendships, they often forget how. Fortunately, there are several ways to help seniors navigate the social awkwardness of building a new circle of friends.
yourself in close proximity to other people. Therefore, if you eat in a communal dining area during your mealtimes, don’t sit by yourself. Before you sit down, look around If you are an older the room. If there is an adult transitioning into an assisted living open seat near someone, consider asking community, here are if you can sit there some tips on how to and spark up a confind senior friends. versation over dinner. You may quickly find Revisit Past Friend-Building Tac- yourself with a new permanent dining tics A great way to expand partner. your circle of friends is to think about how Join a Club to Find Senior Friends you made friends One of the easiest in the past. In truth, many of the methods ways to make new friends is to find a you previously used group of people who will likely help you make friends now. For appreciate an activity you like. For example, example, introducif you enjoy knitting, ing yourself to your neighbors when mov- try to find out if your ing to a new place is a senior living commucustomary and polite nity has a knitting first step. When mov- club or recommend starting one. By doing ing into a senior living community, don’t this, you will not only be afraid to make the be giving yourself the opportunity to talk to rounds and get to know your fellow res- new people, but you will also already have idents. one conversation topic Start a Conversation to work off of. Furthermore, the best part With a Stranger Finding senior friends is that you will likely come to find that you is all about putting have more in common
our senior residents with comfortable accommodations and healthy meals, our community’s caring staff prioritizes recreational and social activities that will help seniors engage with others, foster new relationships, and build their circles of friends through activities and events. If you’re looking for a than just that initial premium senior living shared interest. solution in the Central Florida area, come Helping Seniors Find a find out what makes Community of Friends Encore at Avalon Park At Encore at Avalon the best. Schedule a Park, we recognize virtual tour by conhow important an tacting us at 407-270active and vibrant 7500 today. social life is to the seniors in our lives. In addition to providing
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Summer Camps!
Sign up today!!! $195 per week No Registration Fee *All meals and snacks included All activities are inhouse
12881 Tanja King Blvd, Orlando, FL 32828 (407) 306-9035 • www.kidsrkidsAvalonPark.com
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All- Star Dance Company to Open Second Location in Downtown Avalon Park Grand Opening Set for August 1, 2021
Avalon Park Group announced today that All-Star Dance Company has leased 1,846 SF of retail space at 12001 Avalon Lake Drive, Suite D, Orlando, FL 32828, in the heart of Downtown Avalon Park. The grand opening date for their second location has been set for August 1st. All-Star Dance Company, owned by Avalon Park resident Courtney Englert, is a community-based dance studio focusing on education, fitness, and talent development for all ages. The family-friendly aspect of the studio is portrayed in every component of the studio, from the choreography to the costume selections. The Avalon Park location serves as an expansion to their St. Cloud location which has won multiple Group Excellence, Class Act, Choreography, and Entertainment Awards and currently serves over
250 students. “We plan to bring our amazing dance family atmosphere to the Avalon Community with dance classes for all ages from 2 years old through Adults as well as partner with Encore to help provide entertainment and pop-in classes to our seniors living in the community as well,” said Englert. “Our dance families are not clients, they are part of our amazing ASDC Family.” “It is always a pleasure to meet a resident who not only wants to live in Avalon but run their business here,” says Nery Thorimbert, Senior Property Manager, Avalon Park Group. “The core values of All-Star Dance Company and team fit hand in hand with the Avalon Park Community.” The grand opening date has been set for August 1st to kick off the 2021-2022 dance
season, which officially begins on August 16th. The Rising Star Performance Team Auditions will be August 13th and the Starlight Competition Team Auditions will be August 12th. You can also meet the team and sign up for classes at the Avalon Park Fourth of July Celebration. For more information please visit www.AllStarDanceCompany.com or on social @AllStarDanceCo. Downtown Avalon Park, developed and managed by Avalon Park Group, is east Orlando’s premier community to live, learn, work and play. For an up-to-date listing of the 100+ shops, restaurants, and professional services visit the full online directory at www.AvalonParkOrlando.com.
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Why Are Hot Desks So Hot?
The hot desks are also a hot option because of their flexibility. We are committed to the concept of flexibility at The 5th Floor; this is one of our strengths. We understand that people need flexibility, physically, mentally, emotionally, and also in their work life. Especially in these times, when the way we work has changed so drastically. Daily, we hear from people who walk through our doors, who need an alternative solution to working from home. There might be one person who would like to come in very early every morning and drink a coffee while checking emails. There might be another person who needs to come in the afternoon only one day a week to study for a certification. There may be someone else who likes to come in later in the day and take a break from the desk to chat at the coffee bar at reception about all the news of the day. Whether they need something regularly or a quiet place for an By: Jacqueline Seaton, Community Manager emergency Zoom call, the Hot Desk option provides solutions Since The 5th Floor coworking space opened in The Avalon for essentially every work need. Innovation Center this March, the “Hot Desk” option has been The 5th Floor provides a space where our members can feel growing with rapid popularity! welcome and part of a community and also be able to concenA Hot Desk Membership allows a member to access any avail- trate, focus and be productive, within the type of time frames able desk in the coworking space up to 5 days a week, with ac- they need to work, in the space that is comfortable to them. cess to all the amenities without renting a private office. The The Hot Desk provides all this, while being a very affordable cowork area is a large open space full of natural light with and flexible option. high ceilings and amazing art on the walls. Equipped with ergonomic leather chairs, sit and stand desks, and sofa seat- For anyone who signs up in the month of July, Hot Desks will ing, the huge windows provide a beautiful view out to Avalon be even hotter at just $165 a month ($100 off). Call us on 407 730 3493 or email us at info@the5thfloororlando.com for more lake - so it’s just a great place to sit and work. information or to sign up with this special offer.
AMLY Sustainability & Circulor Partner on Tracing Materials in Lithium-Ion Battery Supply Chain AMLY Sustainability & Circulor to collaborate on implementing full traceability of critical components and materials for customers in the Electric Vehicle (EV) lithium-ion battery supply chain in the US and Latin America.
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ty and sustainability. These will directly address the requirements of the new administration for the 2030 Greenhouse Gas Pollution Reduction Target that includes reducing carbon pollution from the transportation sector, addressing carbon pollution from industrial processes, securing AMLY Sustainability is proud to announce domestic production of safer low carbon its collaboration with Circulor to imple- products and investing in innovation. ment its full traceability and dynamic CO2 tracking solution for customers across the Ana Leal, AMLY Sustainability’s FoundUnited States and Latin America for lith- er added: “This collaboration between ium-ion battery and Electric Vehicle (EV) AMLY and Circulor will allow us to offer supply chain and for semiconductors and a technology driven dynamic solution to critical materials of electrical and electron- support critical industries like electrical ic equipment. and electronics and EV in tracing materials and carbon, for a transparent low impact AMLY will be implementing Ciculor’s production. In addition, AMLY commits software solution for its upcoming projects to provide other consulting solutions that with American manufacturers to meet their can improve the products and processes sustainability and circularity objectives for for a true reduction of the carbon footprint material traceability and CO2 transparen- and overall environmental and social imcy. Circulor’s solution is a successful prov- pacts. It is another industry-leading move en approach for traceability during actual by AMLY that sets the way forward for production. Both companies will also work improving the sustainability of products, together to prepare and enable AMLY and processes and the supply chain.” its manufacturing and supply chain partners for full traceability of Carbon from “We are excited to be working with partthe start of production. AMLY and Circu- ners like AMLY to expand our support to lor will also advise on best practices and customers in the US and Latin America with strategies for addressing issues identified complex and global supply chains. The reduring the traceability as a means to sup- newed focus on reducing greenhouse gas port the reduction of carbon. and responsible sourcing of critical minerals and materials requires increasing Electrical and electronics critical materials transparency and collaboration throughand components and electric vehicle bat- out the supply chain to enable change at teries are key technologies for the US and scale that is required.”, says Veera Johntracing materials and carbon across the son, Co-Founder of Circulor. supply chain is a necessary step to meet internal demand and transition to climate neutrality, and to a more circular economy. Through this collaboration, AMLY and Circulor are setting new benchmarks for electrical and electronics and EV battery material transparency, traceabili-
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June Event Recap
Father’s Day Food Truck Night
Kid’s Fishing Tournament
The 5th Floor Networking
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Creating Effective & High-Quality Design Solutions UNIQUE TO EACH CLIENT’S BRAND STORY OUR CAPABILITIES INCLUDE: • Branding & Logos
• Infographics
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• Direct Mail
• Social Media
• Signage
• Packaging
• Marketing Strategy
FREE 30 minute consultation SCHEDULE NOW: jkcreative.design
jkcreative.design | Located at the 5th Floor in Avalon Park | 301.467.5850
Welcome to Ever Ella, An Enchanting Event Branding Studio. Your wedding collateral should be just as unique and beautiful as your love story. Think of us as your fairy godmother, crafting all of the details you need for your special day. Our goal is to make your dreams come true and develop event designs that are the perfect fit. SAVE THE DATES ♥ INVITATION SUITES ♥ THANK YOU NOTES CUSTOM ART & LOGOS ♥ PROGRAMS ♥ MENUS ♥ FAVORS PLACE CARDS & TABLE NUMBERS ♥ COCKTAIL NAPKINS WELCOME BAGS ♥ CUSTOM SIGNAGE ♥ APPAREL & MORE
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Hope & Help Vision and Story
Hope & Help began in 1988 as a small support group of a few friends who cared for a close friend who was experiencing of AIDS-related complications. The compassion and spirit of those friends lives on today. Since then, Hope & Help has grown into one of the most comprehensive HIV/ STI service organizations in Florida, with a full medical clinic, in addition to testing, education, prevention, case management, support group services, and a syringe service program. With Florida consistently ranking higher nationally than most other states for new HIV and STI transmissions, Hope & Help is driven by its mission to end the HIV and STI epidemic in Florida through comprehensive health education, prevention, testing, and treatment. Ultimately, Hope & Help’s vision is to see all generations empowered with the knowledge, resources, and opportunities necessary to live healthy and stay well. Hope & Help is the warm hug of health care. Today, Hope & Help offers HIV/STI preventive and treatment services to thousands of patients across Florida, including Orlando, Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Seminole, and Miami. At Hope & Help, we’re known as the “warm hug of health care” for our compassionate and skilled approach to making our patients feel welcome, appreciated, and for creating an environment that celebrates diversity, individuality, and the power of the human spirit. Hope & Help is the recipient of the “2020 Top Places to Work Award” from Orlando Sentinel and the “Best STD Testing Resource in Apopka” by Testing.com.
Orange County and Hope & Help Launch Needle Exchange Program for Orange County Residents Orange County Government is launching a needle exchange program to assist with the elimination of infectious disease. The goal is to help individuals who struggle with intravenous drug use and reduce the spread of HIV and Hepatitis C. The program will also attempt to reduce overdoses, which were up more than 70% during the COVID-19 pandemic. In February 2020, The Orange County Board of County Commissioners approved an ordinance to allow needle or syringe exchange programs to operate within the boundaries of Orange County. Hope & Help was selected by Orange County Government to operate the needle exchange program which began on June 1, 2021. Hope and Help will provide an annual report to Orange County Government and the Board of County Commissioners on the progress and outcomes per the new ordinance. A copy of the disease elimination ordnance is included. “What we are offering with the needle exchange is part of a larger harm reduction program grounded in justice and human rights,” said Hope & Health Prevention Director Adam Troy. “Harm reduction is about creating positive change and working with people without
judgement, coercion, discrimination, or requiring that they stop using drugs as a precondition of support. We treat people who use drugs along with their families with compassion and dignity, to save lives and stop the spread of disease.” The program benefits include: exchange of needles one for one; safe injection and wound care supplies; Naloxone distribution and education; overdose prevention and safer injection site training. Program participants will also be offered free Narcan, a medication that reverses overdoses and has saved thousands of lives. Program Location: Hope & Help 4122 Metric Drive, Suite 800 Winter Park, FL 32792 To learn more visit: IDEA Orlando - Syringe Service Program (hopeandhelp.org). MORE INFO: For program information and to schedule interviews with Hope & Help, please e-mail Adam.Troy@HopeandHelp.org.
EOCC Business Expo Features East Orange Businesses On Thursday, August 26th the East Orlando Chamber of Commerce is hosting their Business EXPO at the DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando Airport from 5PM-8PM. This annual event showcases over 100 local and area businesses. This event welcomes the public to meet Chamber business members to learn about their products and services. If you are in need of a plumber, roofer, insurance agent, financial advisor, bank or wish to support an area business, this is a one stop shop event. Show your support and join us for an evening full of prizes, giveaways, food and more. Tickets are avail-
able at EOCC.org.
tablecloth or runner. • Bring a pop up banner Are you a business own- (either full size or tableer or representative who top) • Marketing materials, is looking for additional business cards, rack exposure to drive traffic cards, postcards, flyers, and get contacts? If yes, etc. then this is the event for • Provide branded giveyou. Exhibitors are proaway’s i.e. pens, chip vided a table to set up a display to showcase their clips, key chains, candy, cookies, etc. products and services. • Hold a drawing to colSpace is limited so reglect additional business ister early at EOCC.org to reserve your exhibitor cards. • Make sure you identify space. and separate hot leads from the rest. If this is your first time • Include a prize for the preparing for an Expo Bingo Card Winners. here are a few tips to • Have a well decorated make it a successful table (practice setting this event. up before attending to ensure all your items will • Have branded items, fit and look presentable) include your Logo on a • Be creative. Use wrapped boxes to create various heights to add interest and eye appeal to your table. (include bouquet of flowers) • Practice your 30 second elevator speech. • Stand in front of your table and engage attendees (no one wants to visit a table where someone is sitting on their phone not paying attention.) • Work the Expo to visit and meet fellow exhibitors, they might be your next customer or client. • After the event, follow up, follow up, follow up. Send thank you notes to those who visited your table. If you need promotional or marketing materials, our members are here to help, many with specials and discounts just in time
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for the EXPO. Check out these members listed in the Chamber Directory at EOCC.org; Fineline Printing & Graphics, Nadini Printing & Marketing, Office Depot, Platinum Signs & Design, and Signarama. If you need more information regarding the EXPO or the East Orlando Chamber, contact us at 407-277-5951 or eocc@eocc.org. For 75 years we have supported our business members and communities in East Orange County providing a voice, opening doors for success, connecting members with opportunities, educational business development and building professional relationships. Our members support our mission to help sustain a robust economy, fostering companies with employment opportunities and merchants who provide the goods and services our community needs. If you are interested in supporting our local business community, you are encouraged to visit EOCC.org or call the office at 407-277-5951 to learn more about investing in our local communities and economy.
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BUSINESS DIRECTORY
CLICK HERE FOR FULL DIRECTORY! We Sell & Install:
STNEVE 1202
July 4th October 8-9th October 30th November 13th December 4th December 31st
4th of July Oktoberfest Spooktacular Fall Craft Fair Avalon Aglow NYE
Movie Under the Stars Food Truck Nights National Anthem Every Friday
4th Fridays Monthly (September - April) 3rd Sundays Monthly Facebook Live at Noon
• Floor Tile • Wood-like Tile • Carpet • Laminate • Hardwood Floors • Baseboards
• Granite • Bathroom Tile • Kitchen Backsplash • Pavers • Custom Cabinets
Plus We Also Offer Professional Painting for Interior and Exterior
FLOORS, INC INC & POLO PALM PALM PAINT PAINT
PoloFloors@yahoo.com www.PoloFloors.com
407.988.3361
3738 Avalon Park E Blvd. Orlando, FL 32828
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PLAY Sign up for youth basketball or soccer at the Avalon Park Y! Call 407-381-2512, visit ymcacf.org, or stop by the Avalon Park YMCA today to learn more about programs and membership. SAFETY PLAYS FIRST We’ve implemented safety procedures that ensure we provide everyone who enters our YMCA facilities with a safe environment. To learn more, visit ymcacf.org/safety
ABOUT YMCA YOUTH SPORTS More than ever, our kids need to get out and experience the joy of being a kid again. And for many, that means teamwork, friends, and sports! Our Youth Sports programs are ready to provide a safe, clean, and fun environment so your family can get back to learning and playing the sports you love at the YMCA.
The YMCA of Central Florida is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening our community.
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Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Orlando to Open Location in Downtown Avalon Park Soft Opening Set for August 2, 2021 Grand Opening Set for August 14, 2021
Avalon Park Group announced today that Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Orlando has leased 2,333 SF of retail space at 3873 Avalon Park East Blvd., Orlando, FL 32828, in the heart of Downtown Avalon Park. The soft opening date has been set for August 2nd, with a grand opening event scheduled for August 14th. Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Orlando, owned by James Bejer, an Orlando native, and U.S. Navy veteran, will provide high-quality self-defense training and education to all ages of adults and children. This self-defense system is based on the Gracie University curriculum and has been tested and proven success for over a hundred years around the world. The
curriculum and structure for this program includes an online education platform through Gracie University. “Born and raised in east Orlando, Avalon Park is the perfect community to give me the opportunity to serve the town I grew up in,” said Bejer. “Gracie JiuJitsu Orlando will be a place where kids will be empowered, and adults will be equipped with self-defense techniques. There are only 190 Gracie University Certified Training Centers (CTC) around the world, and this will be the first CTC in Orlando!” “From the moment I met James, I knew that he embodied the vision of what our community is all about,” says Nery
Thorimbert, Senior Property Manager, Avalon Park Group. “Providing a healthy focus in a community setting makes Gracie JiuJitsu Orlando the perfect addition to Downtown Avalon Park.” For more information please email james. bejer@gjjorlando. com or on Facebook @ GracieJiuJitsuOrlando. Downtown Avalon Park, developed and managed by Avalon Park Group, is east Orlando’s premier community to live, learn, work and play. For an up-to-date listing of the 100+ shops, restaurants, and professional services visit the full online directory at www. AvalonParkOrlando. com.
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DINING
PAPA GIO’S
PIZZERIA & RESTAURANT
3831 Avalon Park Blvd East, Orlando, FL 32828 (407) 380-3300 | www.papagios.com
DINING
Coming together to create a healthy community
LIVE WELL
Dinner and Good Conversation
This summer, the YMCA of Central Florida is focusing on (re)connecting—we want you to reconnect with yourself, friends, and family. When it comes to taking care of your own mental, spiritual, and physical health, the Y has services and programs that’ll help you reach your wellness goals. For instance, you can unwind after a stressful day with a Tai Chi group exercise class, take a few solo laps around one of our sparkling pools, or even visit select family centers on a Sunday for church service. However, reconnecting with loved ones is a bit different. One of the best ways to get (back) in touch with your family and friends is by having a genuine conversation, and what better place is there to start a conversation than around the kitchen table? Between sports practice, extracurricular activities, working late, and other situations that pop up each week, you may feel like your family doesn’t have time to eat dinner together. Yet often times, conversations around the dinner table can be some of the most uplifting and educational experiences for everyone. You might hear a fact about each other that you never knew, find out how to better communicate with each family member, or even start a new tradition. Making a point to set aside time for a family meal and engage with others is a great way practice truly listening to and learning from loved ones. Regardless of whether your meal is homemade, takeout, or leftovers, gather your family together and strike up a conversation around the
table—no screens allowed! be able to fly?” You’re only limited by Avoid asking close-endyour imagination! Get as silly as you want to with ed questions that can be these and let everyone answered with “yes” or at the table have a turn “no.” Open-ended questions help encourage con- coming up with their own versations to keep going question. Give each family and also give you an member the opportunity opportunity to ask a folto share their opinion below-up question. Here are fore moving on to the next some suggestions to get a question. deeper conversation started: What funniest thing happened to you today or made you smile? If you had superpowers, Let your kids laugh and what would they be and how would you use them giggle or feel proud for a moment by asking them for good? about their happiest moA question like this helps ment of the day. Don’t to open up the imagination and makes you and push for more information, simply listen and your kids think about different ways we can help focus on your child’s feelings. Be sure to share your people. You might also learn about an issue that’s happiest moment, too. weighing on your child’s mind that he or she might not be able to articulate in another way.
Remember, you can have conversations with your family anywhere, not just around the dinner table. Keeping conversations open is a great way to communicate with your family. Make sure that you listen to what others have to say. Never pass judgment rather than give advice and support. Keeping your family active is one of the main ways to ensure everyone stays healthy, but remember, it’s important to slow down and strengthen emotional and mental connections just as much as it is to work out to strengthen physical ones.
What was your favorite part of the day? While this is a fairly general question that we ask often, it’s a simple way to start a conversation. A question like this lets your kids know that you care about and are interested in their opinions and feelings. Don’t forget to share your favorite part of the day as well! What is your favorite thing to do with our family? By asking this question, you’ll hear your family’s thoughts on the things they like to do. This can help in planning that quality time with them in the future, and give you a good working list of ideas and activities that the whole family will enjoy. Try some “Would you rather?” questions like… • “Would you rather go to the beach or the mountains, and what would you do when you got there?” • “Would you rather be a giraffe or an elephant, and why?” • “Would you rather be able to turn invisible or
GROW TOGETHER AT THE AVALON PARK Y! This summer, it’s time to rediscover everything you may have missed out on the past year! At the Y, we’re committed to not only being your home for health and wellness, but also a place of community and belonging. We’re more than just a gym—we’re a community. Develop relationships, achieve your goals, and belong to something bigger than yourself. We offer programs and activities for your entire family to get happy and healthy together! • Member Discounts Up To 50% On Programs & Early Registration • Youth Sports • Swim Lessons • Group Exercise Classes • Personal Training
AVALON PARK YMCA 12001 Avalon Lake Dr M-P Orlando, FL 32828
ymcacf.org The YMCA of Central Florida is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening our community.
LIVE WELL
Wellness with Jen: Summer Exercise I Don’t Wanna! Why? How?
The summer months tend to get crazy with juggling the kids being home or going to a different camp every week, vacations, family, holiday celebrations,… all the things. Juggling a crazy schedule can make it difficulty to keep up with wellness. The benefits of eating right (most of the time- everyone needs a cheat meal/ day) and exercising are endless, but how in the world are you supposed to fit exercising into your crazy, busy summer life as a Mom??
Regular exercise isn’t just about weight control. Exercising regularly can increase muscle and bone health, increase energy, help improve mood, promote better sleep, and increase the desire for time your special someone. Some things that you might not consider when it comes to exercise are that exercise can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve skin health, improve brain health and memory,... The benefits truly are endless. Ok, ok, we know the benefits. Again, how in the world are you supposed to fit it into your hectic life? Well, basically, you find what works for you... Do you do better when you go to a gym or maybe even attend classes? Ok, so if you are a busy mom, you have the option to find a gym with childcare included and just take your kiddos with you, or you can find a time when someone can be with your kiddos while you go the gym. Maybe you get up and go early before everyone else wakes up. Maybe you go over your lunch break at work. Maybe you hire a babysitter a few times per week for some
mommy freedom at the gym. Easy peasy, just get there! And if you don’t have kids, well, then just make it happen when it fits into your schedule.
Do you prefer to exercise at home at your own pace and on your own timeline? This is what works best for me. With this option, you have the freedom to select your own program and your own timeframe. You can choose to find workout videos on YouTube, follow someone on Instagram that streams their workouts, use workout DVDs (Is this still a thing? Or am I just old?!), or you can use an on demand program. I used to use BeachBody On-Demand, and I really enjoyed it. However, when I was pregnant with my son, I wasn’t a fan of the program’s pre-natal workouts, so I began searching for new programs on YouTube. What I really like about this option, is that you can find an instructor that you connect with and follow them. When exercising at home, you have the ability to complete your workouts before everyone wakes up, during nap time, or even include your kiddos in your exercise program. I am not a fan of late night workouts, but some busy folks even choose to complete their workouts after the kids go to bed. Maybe you aren’t quite ready to schedule a formal workout like going to the gym, taking a class, or doing workout videos. That is totally fine. Why not start with a walk 3 times a week? Plop the kids in the stroller, turn on some high energy tunes, and head out for a walk. Make a deal with them that if they hang with you during your walking time, they can play at the
park afterwards.
I love nothing more than including my daughter in my workouts. My son is still a bit young, so it is hit or miss on how the workout with him will go, but a 15-month-old doing squats is one of the cutest things ever. Worst case scenario, if you can only fit a few squats, a few push-ups, and a few crunches into your day with your little one by your side, it is better than nothing, and you are providing an amazing example for your kiddos. When possible, nap time is a great time to squeeze in a kid-free workout from home. You find what works for you, and you make it happen. No excuses! The most important thing is that you start at the point that makes sense for you. You choose a routine that works for you and that you can continue with consistently. It is easy to make excuses. It is easy to say that you are too buse. It is easy to say you are too tired. It is easy to say that you will start tomorrow. Throw all of those excuses in the garbage and get started, TODAY! Follow me on social media or shoot me a message if you have any questions or concerns. Happy Summer, everyone! Jen Cosby jcdiamondwellness@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/yljennifercosby https://www.facebook.com/groups/ oilshowyouthewayed/ https://www.instagram.com/jen_cosby/
COMMUNITY CORNER
Memorial Day Post Pandemic in Avalon Park different backgrounds call home. Events in Avalon Park take place After living in a yearlong pandemic, the coun- monthly and bring in a lot of traction for family try was able to come together to celebrate this and friends to enjoy. year’s Memorial Day and For Memorial Day weekAvalon Park was no exception. The Rotary Club, end, the Rotary Club comes together to place which is a non-profit miniature American flags organization that holds around the community. events within Avalon Lisa McQueeny came up Park, took this time to with this idea about six unify the community in years ago in her prior honoring the men and women who have passed community and decided to bring the tradition of serving in the military. community and patrio“The Rotary Club of Ava- tism to Avalon Park. lon Park is one club belonging to a much larger “The Rotary Club of Avalon Park simply conglobal organization, Rotary International,” pres- tinued the flag project to continue that sense of ident-elect of the Rotary Club, James McQueeney community and pride in our country,” McQueeny said, “The Rotary Motto said, “During the panis ‘Service Above Self’ and our individual clubs demic, we believe it was more important than ever serve our local commuto keep up with single nities through a variety gestures such as placing of service projects and flags.” fundraising events.” Tobi Oliveri
Avalon Park is the center of a diverse community located in east Orlando, FL. It contains 1,860-acres of neighborhoods in which many families of
The pandemic has brought a gray haze upon the world, changing the way everyone lived their lives. McQueeny and the Rota-
ry Club felt this was a perfect time to bring the community even closer together.
pier days, involvement in normal life is encouraged and will unify everyone once again.
“[I]t is a small gesture that everyone can see to remember the holiday and feel like they are celebrating.” Lana Phillips, a member of the community said.
To learn more about the Rotary Club of Avalon Park, visit Rotary.org. The Rotary Club of Avalon Park holds meetings every Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. at the Pavilion in Avalon Park. McQueeny encourages anyone who might be interested to come to check out what being a part of the Rotary Club is all about.
This past year the community has been unable to celebrate to the full extent like before the pandemic. “[W]e are excited to see more public events taking place and more community involvement,” McQueeney said. “[A]s we are slowly coming to the end of this pandemic, the events that are usually held in Avalon will come back,” Phillips said. Though the community will have to keep safety precautions in mind, everyone is excited to start getting back to the way things were before. As the world enters hap-
Sources: James McQueeney Email: jimmcqueeney@ gmail.com Phone Number: 407-3068238 Lana Phillips Email: lphillips5375@ gmail.com Phone Number: 407-6332065 Rotary Club Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/www.rotaryclubofavalonpark.org
COMMUNITY
OUC’s ‘Nanogrid’ Claims Energy Innovator Award
American Public Power Association presents national honor to Clint Bullock OUC—The Reliable One was honored this week with the Energy Innovator Award at the American Public Power Association’s National Conference in Orlando. The APPA award recognizes utilities that either develop or apply creative, energy-efficient techniques and technologies that provide better service to electric customers or launch projects that increase the efficiency of utility operations. OUC won the award for its innovation of a “nanogrid,” a test site of emerging energy assets that could prove to be integral to the utility’s goal of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050, with interim goals of 50% CO2 reductions by 2030 and 75% by 2040. Led by OUC’s Emerging Technologies team, the project seeks to offer replicable and deployable solutions for decarbonization and decentralization of the grid, backup power systems and growing electric vehicle use.
tional EV charging stations, and a hydrogen system. The hydrogen setup includes an electrolyzer, storage tanks and two fuel cells. OUC is part of a research team involved in a U.S. Department of Energy-supported $9 million project that’s studying the production, storage and transport of hydrogen for the dispatching of electricity or as transportation fuel. OUC is one of only a few utilities in the United States exploring hydrogen’s potential as a solution to the challenges of decarbonizing the grid. Clint Bullock, General Manager & CEO, accepted the award at the APPA conference.
“We are honored to be recognized as an energy innovator by the American Public Power Association. The nanogrid is a cutting-edge project, leading the way for OUC and our industry to adopt innovative clean energy technologies and integrate them into the electric power grid,” said Bullock. “I am very proud of The nanogrid consists of a floating photovoltaic solar the work our team has done on this project.” array, battery storage, vehicle-to-grid and conven-
Hi everyone! We’re on a roll! We’ve played a rousing game of Left Right Center and have decided to play TWICE a month in July and August! Our plans for July include: Fireworks downtown on the 4th, Nuno’s breakfast on the 6th and 20th, Left Right Center on 9th and the 23rd, Lukas Butterfly Garden on the 16th, late lunch/dinner at the Keg Social at 4pm on the 22nd, July 25 is a scheduled Dinner cruise on the Halifax (make your own reservation please 386-402-1353) (not a group reservation), and Bahama Breeze at 4pm on the 29th. Have a great 4th of July. We celebrate 13 years as a group this month. Happy Birthday to us!!
COMMUNITY
Kiwanis Club Update
Kiwanis Outstanding Student of the Year
The Kiwanis club again recognized some of the top service leadership students in the local schools. Although no formal ceremony could be held, these awards were given out to some outstanding students based on academics, service and citizenship.
Camelot Elementary Castle Creek Elementary Stone Lakes Elementary Lake Nona High Timber Creek High
Vincent Pace Valeria Guzman Maxwell Chubb Dhruv Patel Amelia Packham
Kiwanis Scholarships Kiwanis provided three scholarships to three outstanding high schools seniors from Timber Creek, who were all involved in Key Club at Timber Creek and had phenomenal years especially with everything they had to go through during COVID.
Olivia Packham • Amelia Packham • Lorena Sosa
July Resident of the Month - David Bew! “I nominated David Bew for Resident of the Month for several reasons. To honor his service in the U.S. Army, where he served in the Gulf conflict, and received a Commendation Life Saving Award. In recognition of his community spirit, and efforts to create a positive culture in our community. And for his sense of humor, calm personality, and love for Avalon Park Wildlife.” Thank you for all you do for our country and our community, David!
Trails Master Plan Survey Results are In! 3.2.3. Impacts of Changing Conditions on Previously Recommended Trail Corridors The 2021 Trails Master Plan recognizes the changing social and development conditions of Orange County. For example, due to new roadway construction or property ownership constraints some of the previously considered trail corridors are no longer viable. Coordination with Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC) was conducted to determine the feasibility of locating trails within OUC’s utility corridors. It has been determined that at this time, it is not feasible to construct trails within these utility corridors. Therefore, the following corridors have been analyzed and removed from further consideration: 1. Avalon Trail Extension 2. Meadow Woods Trail In addition, the previously proposed Azalea Park Trail has been revised. The revised alignment is depicted in Chapter 4 on this Plan OrangeCountyTrailsMasterPlanMay2021Draft.pdf (ocfltrailsplan.com)
COMMUNITY
Textiles: Is It Doing More Harm Than Good?
By Kyra Bassett, AMLY Sustainability Intern
“94% of Gen Z’ers believe companies should help address social and environmental issues.” This type of mindset from current and possibly future generations can create a major impact for textile industries. A component of the textile industry that has created problems is the fast fashion industry. Due to the standards for production and selling the items, there has been mass consumption and mass production. With the amount of textiles around the world, what is and is not being used is having a negative impact on the environment. When looking at the industrial pollution, 20% of it comes from the textile manufacturing process. In addition to this, out of all of the textiles produced, less than 1% of those that are clothes are recycled into new garments. For textiles as a whole, in the U.S, the majority end up in landfills. According to the table below, ever since the 1960s up to 2018, the pattern of creating materials and having them end up in landfills have been occurring
for decades. All of these issues are only the end-of-life of a product and are also not considering the upstream and raw material impacts. If drastic changes do not occur, there will be an increase in problems over time. The textile industry has affected the environment worldwide in the land, water, and air. Land has been used for its space. This space is used to contain different forms of waste. For every 1lb of waste from a consumer, there is 40lbs coming from a company. In terms of the water, waste has been placed in varying water sources. As it pertains to the dyes of the textiles, these dyes are viewed as the 2nd largest polluter of water globally. Lastly, the air is being impacted by global carbon emissions; 10% of the emissions is coming from the fashion industry. Many see the problems that are going on today and have been participating in creating solutions. Some general actions are donating, recycling, and repairing and reselling. Donations are able to help those in need. The Salvation Army incorporates this tactic into its organization. Items that are taken in can range from clothes to furniture and the profits that are made go towards vital programs and services for those that are in the community. Another source involved with creating solutions is Terracycle. Terracycle is an organization that focuses on making recycling an easier process for people. It has created platforms that help with decreasing the amount of single use products. The final source is The Renewal Workshop. The Renewal Workshop focuses on repairs and resells; it takes in apparel and textiles so that it can be turned into renewed products. Companies and organizations like those that have been listed help aid in the reversal of the damage so far in the environment. With more awareness, products can be beneficial to both people and the environment.
