Avalon Park Sun Orlando June 2024

KEEPING THE NEWS LOCAL & THE COMMUNITY CONNECTED.

JUNE 2024 VOLUME 5 EDITION 6

Fourth of July Festivities in Avalon Park Kick Include 5K, Bike Parade, Apple Pie Bake-Off and Fireworks

Kick off your summer in style and show your patriotism Thursday, July 4th at the Downtown Avalon Park Fourth of July Festival! Enjoy a host of thrilling attractions, from a wet/dry bounce park and a bike parade to special performances and an apple pie bake-off, from 5-9 pm. Round out your night with an amazing firework show at 9 pm!

The Avalon Park Foundation Firecracker 5K marks the beginning of the day-long festivities, starting at 8 a.m. Whether you want to run, jog, walk, stroll or roll through Downtown Avalon Park, join in the festive fun while also helping to support grants and scholarship programs. You can register online through July 4th at 7 a.m. at 3651 Avalon Park E Blvd. The first 150 participants will receive a patriotic medal to commemorate the event!

Do you fancy yourself as the creator of the most scrumptious apple pie? Then join the Apple Pie Bake-off which is returning this year with sponsorship from All-Star Dance Company. Individuals are invited to enter a homemade apple pie by registering online before July 1st. The top three submissions will be awarded cash prizes and announced at the Town Park stage during Avalon Park’s 4th of July festival.

Join Eastside Cycling Club at the East Orlando Gym to start the patriotic bike parade around Avalon Lake! Deck out your bikes, strollers, or wagons in red, white, and blue and be at the starting point by 5:30 p.m. At the end, prizes will be distributed

to those with the most creative and best group entries. All are invited to be a part of this amazing community event! There is no cost to register, but participants are encouraged to do so before July 1st online

Stay around, as festivities will continue throughout the evening. The night will be filled with community performances, a wet/dry bounce park, food trucks, vendors, and music. Restaurant, retail, and service businesses will also be offering specials and deals throughout the evening. Finishing off an exciting day, the festivities will be concluded with a magnificent fireworks display over Avalon Lake at 9:00 p.m.

The summer festivities in Avalon Park are endless! On June 21st-22nd, the East Orlando Gym has partnered with YogaSix to celebrate International Yoga Day with a series of yoga events over 2 days at the gym and Town Park. If you’re up for some friendly competition, visit the Marketplace, where there’s something exciting happening every night, from Tuesday Night Singo to Thursday Night Trivia. And don’t forget, Kids Eat Free on Wednesdays! The ever-popular Food Truck Night will continue the 3rd Sundays of the month (5-8 p.m.) at the new location on Avalon Lake Drive. There will be music, food, and friends to enjoy. And this year the Christmas in July event will be held on July 20th and will feature some newly added activities like a Makers’ Market and more family-friendly activities. Visit online to grab your cup, ticket, and map see the expanded activities list for 2024.

For up-to-date news and events, visit us online at AvalonParkOrlando.com and follow us on social media: Facebook and Instagram.

very close to my heart and vital to our community: Alzheimer’s Awareness Month.

Alzheimer’s disease is a condition that affects more than 55 million people worldwide and over 6 million people in the United States. Here in Avalon Park, the impact is felt deeply, especially with our cherished Encore Avalon Park Assisted Living and Memory Care Community. When we built Encore, the need for memory care floors was evident, and we answered that call. Today, those floors are full, a testament to the prevalence of this condition and the importance of our efforts.

While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, studies suggest that a healthy lifestyle can help mitigate the risk. Eating well, staying physically active, and engaging in mental exercises are all beneficial. On a personal note, my exercise routine is an essential part of my life. I find it not only keeps me physically fit but also mentally sharp and emotionally balanced. Whether it’s a session on the rowing machine, a run, or a bike ride, I believe in the power of staying active—not just for Alzheimer’s prevention, but for overall

outdoor exercise equipment, and various run and cycling clubs offer us plenty of ways to stay active and engaged. I encourage everyone to take advantage of these resources, not just for their own health, but to set a positive example for our youth and our community.

Volunteering is another powerful way to make a difference. At Encore, volunteers are welcome who want to support and learn more about those living with dementia. Your time and care can bring joy and comfort to many, and the experience can be incredibly rewarding.

The statistics surrounding Alzheimer’s are sobering. In 2024, the disease and other dementias are expected to cost the nation $360 billion, not including unpaid caregiving. Medicare and Medicaid will cover $231 billion of this, with outof-pocket spending projected at $87 billion. By 2050, total payments for health care, long-term care, and hospice care for people living with dementia are expected to nearly reach $1 trillion.

The total lifetime cost of care for a person living with dementia is estimated at $392,874. Those with Alzheimer’s or other dementias have twice as many hospital stays per year as other older adults. They are also more likely to have chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and kidney disease. Additionally, older adults with Alzheimer’s or other dementias experience more skilled nursing facility stays and home health care visits than their peers.

Here in Avalon Park, we are a community that supports one another, and this Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, I urge you to be part of this support system. Whether through adopting a healthier lifestyle, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness, every action counts.

Together, let’s continue to make Avalon Park a place where health, compassion, and community thrive.

From the Desk of Commissioner

Maribel Gomez Cordero

Happy June!

This month will mark the beginning of summer, starting on the 21st. As the schools break for summer vacation, everyone is starting to plan their vacations and other activities. It is important then for us to reflect on the significance of Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th. Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in 1865, two years after President Abraham Lincoln enacted the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth serves as reminder of the ongoing struggle for freedom and equality. It is a time for celebration, education, and reflection on the progress we have made and the work that still lies ahead. As we honor Juneteenth, let us embrace its spirit of resilience and unity, and commit to fostering a more inclusive and just society.

June is also National Caribbean American Heritage Month, a time to honor and recognize the rich cultural contributions of Caribbean Americans to the United States. As stated by the White House: “During Caribbean-American Heritage Month, we celebrate the achievements and dreams of the millions of people of Caribbean origin now living in the United States while honoring the shared history of joy and perseverance that has united and enriched life across

our region for centuries. There is no single Caribbean American identity. The mix of cultures, languages, and religions alive across the United States and the islands reflects the diversity of spirit that defines the American story.”

I would like to extend an invitation to anyone who is interested to attend the upcoming Orange Code Town Hall meeting later this month in June. Orange Code/Vision 2050 will be the new land development regulations that focuses on placemaking standards and context-based regulations. This Form-Based Code relies on desired development characteristics rather than what communities seek to avoid. To learn more, please attend the town hall meeting later this month. A specific time and location will be announced in the coming days and weeks. Please stay tuned to our social media ( Facebook.com/OrangeCountyDistrict4 ) to see this announcement.

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.

Real Estate Market Report: January – May 2024

This real estate market report is localized for the 32828 zipcode, (Avalon Park, Waterford Lakes, and surrounding areas.) Avalon Park and the surrounding area are desirable areas to live in. The data range provided by the Orlando Stella MLS is between January 1, 2024 – May 29, 2024.

1. The number of existing homes listed for sale during 2024 is substantially higher than in 2024. This is good news for prospective buyers as it offers them more choices.

2. Number of Days: The increase in the number of days to sell indicates a buyer’s market. The number of days to sell in 2024 has increased since 2023. This indicates the market is moving towards buyers. If you’re considering selling your home preparation and patience will be key. Price, location, and condition are factors affecting how long it takes for your home to sell.

3. Existing Home Sales can be used as an indicator of how comfortable the consumer is to spend. It’s strongly affected by interest rates. Even with the elevated interest rates this year the number of homes sold in the same period as in 2023 is about the same. If we see a slight reduction in interest rates I expect to see an increase in sales.

4. Average Sales Price: We can see from the graph below the average sales price for homes in 2024 is higher than the same period last year. Even though the data above points to a buyer’s market. Prices will likely continue to increase. Good news for sellers.

5. Interest Rates. Rates affect how much a person can borrow. What is not so evident is how the rates affect how buyers are choosing their homes.

6. My experience this year tells me buyers are far more concerned about the condition of prospective homes as most don’t have the spare cash to remodel or repair their new home. They are cautious. If you’re thinking of selling your home, there is no substitute for experience. Feel free to call me. Put my 22 years of real estate experience to work for you.

Navigating the Heart and Home: How to Discuss Downsizing with Your Senior Parents

Transitioning senior parents to a downsized living arrangement can be emotionally and practically challenging. However, with careful planning and empathy, this process can be smoother and less stressful for both you and your loved ones. Here’s a guide to handling the emotional and practical aspects of convincing senior parents to downsize.

Showcase the Advantages of Downsizing

Emphasizing the practical benefits of downsizing, such as lower maintenance costs, increased safety, and potentially better accessibility, can help paint a positive picture of the future. It’s important to highlight how a simpler living situation can lead to improved quality of life and more freedom. Explaining the financial benefits, like reduced utility costs and less property maintenance, can also help in making the new arrangement seem more appealing and practical.

Craft a Comprehensive Downsizing Plan

Creating a thorough downsizing plan is crucial. Start by assessing your parents’ current living situation and identifying items that hold sentimental value versus those that are no longer needed. Break down the process into manageable tasks, such as sorting belongings, donating or selling items, and arranging for the move. Consider creating a timeline with specific deadlines to keep the project on track. Additionally, involve your parents in the planning process to ensure their preferences and concerns are taken into account every step of the way.

Initiate Conversations Early

Engaging in discussions about downsizing early can make the transition easier. By gradually introducing the idea and discussing viable options, such as smaller homes or senior living communities, parents have the opportunity to slowly acclimate to the idea, making them more likely to participate willingly in the process. Early conversations also allow for more comprehensive planning and can help prevent the feeling of being rushed, which is common in last-minute moves.

Facilitate a Business Transition

If your parents own a business, transitioning out of it can be complex. Seek guidance from professionals such as business brokers or financial advisors to navigate this process smoothly. Be sure to get a business valuation and to ensure all legal and financial aspects are addressed, including transferring ownership, settling outstanding debts, and handling tax implications. Communicate openly with your parents about their vision for retirement and any legacy they wish to leave behind through their business. By addressing these matters proactively, you can help your

parents transition to the next phase of their lives with confidence and peace of mind.

Consider Professional Assistance

Seeking assistance from professionals such as senior move managers or estate planners can provide invaluable support. These experts specialize in streamlining the downsizing process by offering strategies for decluttering and organizing, ultimately easing the physical and emotional load on the family. Additionally, professionals can navigate the complex logistics of selling a home and acquiring a new residence, making the transition smoother and more efficient.

Practice Active Listening

Throughout the downsizing process, it’s essential to prioritize effective communication with your parents. Actively listen to their concerns, preferences, and desires without judgment or interruption. Validate their emotions and reassure them that their feelings are valid. By demonstrating empathy and understanding, you can strengthen your relationship with your parents and foster a sense of trust and cooperation. Remember, the goal is not just to complete the downsizing task but to preserve the dignity and autonomy of your loved ones throughout the process.

Demonstrate Empathy and Understanding

Emotions often run high during the downsizing process, as it involves letting go of cherished memories and possessions. Approach conversations with your parents with empathy and understanding, acknowledging the significance of the transition they are undergoing. Validate their feelings of loss and nostalgia while gently encouraging them to focus on the benefits of downsizing, such as increased safety, reduced maintenance, and greater financial freedom. By offering emotional support and reassurance, you can help your parents navigate this challenging period with grace and resilience.

Transitioning senior parents to a downsized living arrangement requires careful planning, empathy, and support. By crafting a comprehensive downsizing plan, initiating conversations early, providing emotional understanding, and even helping them sell a business, you can help ease the transition for your loved ones. Remember to highlight the benefits of downsizing and offer professional assistance as needed.

Step into the future of senior living—visit Encore at Avalon Park to see how you can enhance your lifestyle in our vibrant community!

LEARN

2023-2024 Husky

Avalon Middle School recently held the final Husky Hero Awards of the 2023-2024 school year, spotlighting students who embody honesty, critical thinking, and problemsolving skills. These awards recognize young minds shaping tomorrow’s leaders.

The ceremony celebrated students who exhibit integrity, navigating challenges with honesty and integrity. Critical thinkers were applauded for their ability to analyze situations, offering

Hero Awards

innovative solutions. Problem solvers showcased their resilience, tackling obstacles with creativity and determination.

These awards not only honor individual achievements but also inspire a culture of excellence within the school community. Thank you to the teachers, staff, parents and community that support Avalon Middle School as they continue to nurture these qualities, it fosters a generation of compassionate and capable leaders.

#ILoveAvalonPark

Summer Camp Corner

WORK

Meet the Member: Eric Katz at The 5th Floor

At The 5th Floor Orlando, we pride ourselves on fostering a vibrant and diverse community of professionals who inspire and support one another. This month, we’re excited to introduce you to one of our standout members, Eric Katz.

Who is Eric Katz?

Eric Katz is a talented engineer and a key member of Marlin Engineering, a company renowned for its innovative infrastructure and transportation solutions. With over a decade of experience in the engineering industry, Eric has played a pivotal role in designing and implementing projects that improve the quality of life in communities.

Journey to Success

Eric’s journey began with a strong foundation in civil engineering. After earning his degree, he quickly made a name for himself by working on high-profile projects across the country. His expertise in transportation engineering and his commitment to excellence led him to Marlin Engineering, where he has been instrumental in driving forward-thinking projects that prioritize sustainability and efficiency.

Why The 5th Floor?

When asked why he chose The 5th Floor as his professional base, Eric highlights the collaborative and inspiring environment. “The 5th Floor offers a unique blend of resources and community. It’s not just a workspace; it’s a place where ideas flourish and connections are made,” says Eric. He appreciates the state-of-the-art facilities and the opportunities to network with like-minded professionals.

Contributions to the Community

Eric is not just a member of The 5th Floor; he’s an active contributor. He regularly participates in our events and workshops, sharing his expertise in engineering and sustainable infrastructure. Eric’s commitment to helping others is evident in his willingness to mentor young engineers and offer advice to fellow members.

Looking Ahead

As Eric looks to the future, he has big plans for Marlin Engineering. He aims to expand the company’s reach and continue developing projects that enhance transportation systems and urban infrastructure. With his dedication and forward-thinking mindset, there’s no doubt that Eric will achieve these goals and more.

Connect with Eric

Interested in learning more about Eric Katz and Marlin Engineering? You can often find him at The 5th Floor, always open for a chat and ready to connect. Don’t hesitate to reach out and say hello!

At The 5th Floor, we celebrate the achievements and stories of our members. Stay tuned for more member spotlights and get inspired by the incredible individuals who make our community thrive. For more information on being a part of The 5th Floor call 407-730-3493 or email Info@The5thFloorOrlando.com.

Happy Father’s Day Gift

Father’s Day falls on Sunday, June 16, this year, which means you have less than a month to secure the perfect present for all the dads in your life. A better idea is to plan a day packed with fun activities. It could just be a walk, a day of fishing, or even a game night at home with all his favourite snacks. The goal is simple: to have fun and create new memories that you both will cherish for years to come. Father’s Day is a day to honor the father figures in our lives who have guided, supported, and inspired you.

So whether he’s the kind of dad who enjoys the latest gadgets, a connoisseur of fine things, or someone who has everything; at Avalon Mail Center we have some simple last minute ideas, with a personal touch for every type of dad.

One way is to send Avalon Mail Center your

message to be printed in a custom card of your choice for $3.34. You can even include a photo or send us your clipart. Another idea is a personalized mug for $17.97. Let our graphic designer design you one or send us your photo to be included on the mug.

Get your ideas in early and we can begin working on it. Avalon Mail Center, located at 3564 Avalon Park E Blvd, Ste 1, Orlando, FL 32828, by Subway opposite the Publix Supermarket Parking Lot or across CVS Pharmacy.

PLAY

How to Find A Good Car Accident Attorney in Orlando Who Cares About You!

1. Experience: Have they handled car crash cases that are like your accident? Do they have the knowledge and background to know how to get you compensation, take care of your medical bills and get your car fixed?

2. Great Results: Lawyers should list their compensation results in settlements, mediations, claims and even trials so you can view them.

3. Well Reviewed: Great lawyers have clients who love them and will leave them reviews

4. Reputation: Top lawyers are reviewed by their colleagues and have several distinctions that are awarded to them over time

5. Great Teammates: No lawyer can handle your case on his or her own. The lawyer must have a team of paralegals, case managers, assistants, nurses and sometimes experts who can help you win your case

6. Passionate, caring, and Relentless: Your lawyer should care about you and your case and should be passionate about helping people and relentless in getting results that matter to you.

DINING

Avalon Park Burger Guide

May was National Hamburger Month! According to National Today, the name “hamburger” comes from the city of Hamburg, Germany. When residents of Hamburg were headed to the eastern shores of the United States during the 18th century, many of them brought a snack called the “Hamburgh sausage.” This snack, like its cousin the “Rundstück warm,” combined a meatball similar to the Swedish meatball with a slice of bread for utensil-free handling.

You can celebrate this month and every month in Avalon Park with many great places to get a delicious burger. It can be difficult to know where you should go if you’re in the mood to eat burgers and fries on a night out with your friends. Don’t worry – we’ve got the list of places that serve the best burgers in Avalon Park just for you! Here are nine places to get a great burger!

EASTSIDE BISTRO

MEJANA

NUNO’S CAFE

NOLA AT AVALON PARK

SOUTH PHILLY STEAKS

CAFE COQUI THE BAKERY COLOMBIAN CAFE

RESTO URBAN KITCHEN THE JUIICE BOX

Coming together to create a healthy community

ARTS & CULTURE CORNER

COMMUNITY CORNER

Avalon Park Pickleball Updates!

The Squeeze are sponsored by Advent Health! Federico Staksrud, Vivienne David, Tyson McGuffin and Parris Todd.

Several Avalon Park pickleball players won gold and silver medals at tournaments at Pictona in Daytona Beach and at USTA. Cheryl Beaulieu and Bonnie Walker won silver in the women’s doubles tournament at USTA.

Pathlight HOME Announces New Chief Executive Officer

Pathlight HOME, a nonprofit that serves those experiencing homelessness and hardship, recently named Carl W. Falconer its new chief executive officer.

As CEO of Pathlight HOME, Falconer will lead Central Florida’s first and largest provider of permanent supportive housing. Since its inception, Pathlight has helped house more than 7,000 individuals. The organization’s core programs and services include permanent supportive housing, career training, and a drop-in center for those experiencing homelessness and mental illness.

“Carl W. Falconer is a visionary leader with three decades of experience in the public and private sectors, specializing in homelessness and human services,” shared Pathlight HOME Baord chair Jann Rigell. “His dedication to driving positive social change and empowering individuals to achieve selfsufficiency reflects a deep-rooted commitment to creating a more equitable society.”

Falconer most recently served as CEO of Homeward Bound WNC in Asheville, NC. He also served as CEO of TaskForce Fore Ending Homelessness in Fort Lauderdale, where he led

a dynamic team focused on serving the unsheltered homeless population in Broward County. Notable achievements include doubling agency funding in less than two years.

With a proven track record of leadership and innovation, Falconer also held leadership positions at the Metro Dallas Homeless Alliance, where he led systemic changes that led to a two percent decrease in overall homelessness, and Lutheran Services Florida Health Systems, where he championed initiatives to maximize the impact of federal resources for housing and homeless services.

“I strongly believe we can end homelessness,” said Carl Falconer, CEO of Pathlight HOME. I am excited to find innovative ways to provide safe and affordable housing for those in need in our community.”

Falconer is an Army veteran with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Public Administration from the University of North Florida. He is married with two wonderful children and a grand puppy. In his free time, Falconer enjoys the outdoors and attending football games.

Corey Coljeski and Julie Grabowski won gold in mixed doubles at Pictona.

Corey and Ken Nola won silver in men’s doubles at Pictona.

OUC to Lower Electric Fuel Rates for Customers Starting This Summer

OUC – The Reliable One’s customers soon will see an electric fuel rate decrease. Today, OUC’s Board of Commissioners approved a 5% reduction in customer electric bills that will take effect July 1.

“This rate decrease reflects our unwavering commitment to provide exceptional value and reliable service to our customers, especially as we enter the hottest months of the year,” said Clint Bullock, OUC General Manager & CEO. “As temperatures soar and energy usage follows suit, we’re committed to being a trusted partner customers can count on and to promoting energy efficiency measures to help them lower their bills.”

The average residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours will see savings of $7 per month or $84 a year. Mid-to-large commercial customers will see a decrease between nearly 5% to 7%. Additionally, beginning October 1, OUC will absorb the $1.30 fee per transaction currently charged by third parties

to customers by walk-in payment locations.

This will be OUC’s third fuel rate decrease since June 2023, demonstrating the utility’s commitment to affordability by passing savings through to customers as the cost of natural gas lowers. Based on the most recent study conducted by the U.S. Energy Information Administration in 2023, OUC residential customers paid an average 12.6 cents/kWh, compared to the national average of 16.0 cents/kWh and Florida average of 15.2 cents/kWh.

OUC also offers customers payment-management options, such as the Power Pass prepaid program and Budget Billing, as well as payment plans. Additionally, OUC’s Project CARE was established in 1994 to provide emergency utility bill payment relief to those experiencing financial hardships. For more information, visit www.OUC.com/assistance. To learn about efficiency programs and ways to use less energy and water, visit www.ouc.com/waystosave

OUC Receives Two Golden Brick Awards from Downtown Orlando Partnership

OUC – The Reliable One received the Sustainability and Resiliency Award and the Award of Excellence in Downtown Orlando Partnership’s 2024 Golden Brick Awards, which recognize people, projects and initiatives that propel downtown Orlando forward.

OUC was honored in the Sustainability and Resiliency category for opening one of the largest electric vehicle charging stations in the state, the Robinson ReCharge Mobility Hub. Located in the heart of downtown Orlando, the Robinson Hub features 21 high-speed chargers that make EV charging accessible and convenient to increase the city’s EV readiness and improve air quality.

OUC also received the Award of Excellence for its OUC100 campaign – a year-long celebration that highlighted the utility’s 100-year history of providing safe, dependable, affordable electric and water service to Central Florida.

“As we come to the end of our centennial anniversary

year, OUC is proud to be acknowledged by the Downtown Orlando Partnership for the contributions we’ve made – and will continue to make – to this community that we’re deeply invested in,” said Clint Bullock, General Manager and CEO at OUC. “As the city’s hometown utility, we remain steadfast in our mission to continue innovating for a brighter, greener future for generations to come.”

OUC has several projects in the works to keep pace with electric and water demand as the city of Orlando grows, and to work towards its goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. A second high-speed EV charging facility is under construction at the Orange County Convention Center South Concourse parking lot. The utility is also currently building two 74.5 MW solar farms and recently installed a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) to improve grid resiliency. In 2025, OUC will begin construction on an alternative water supply project known as the Southeast Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment Plant.

A Wake-Up Call in the Fight Against Hunger

By Derrick Chubbs

“Rent eats first.” Those three words, shared matter-of-factly by a neighbor as she sought food assistance at a local distribution, have stayed in my mind since I first heard them. They describe a dilemma – and silent crisis – many families are struggling with right now in Central Florida and beyond.

Hunger is real. It is urgent. And many people have no choice but to face it alone.

That’s part of the message I recently brought to Washington, D.C., after being invited to participate in a Fed Listens panel. The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve asked for an update on food insecurity. While I’m sure they hoped to hear things had improved in the past two years, I was there to tell them the opposite.

While other metrics show Florida is getting “back to normal” from a business standpoint, statistics on hunger are grim. Second Harvest and its network of more than 750 community feeding partners are distributing approximately 300,000 meals every day to help feed families – and sadly, it still falls short of meeting the need.

Inflation has slowed, but the increased prices for necessities like groceries and housing aren’t returning to their prepandemic levels. Wages haven’t kept up, and with credit card

interest rates on the rise, neighbors who resort to debt to cover costs will face a steeper climb back to stability.

Inflexible costs – housing, insurance payments, utilities, essential medications, and so on – consume an increasingly large share of many Floridians’ paychecks. Sometimes, there is enough left over for groceries. However, when unexpected expenses eat up the remainder, many households turn to their personal networks or the community for help with food.

At the same time, nonprofits like Second Harvest are also facing the brunt of higher costs. Each dollar in our budget needs to stretch further to balance the costs of transportation, storage, and staffing – because if we run out of resources, that would mean turning away families who look to Second Harvest for help – and we cannot let that happen.

Hunger impacts people of all ages and backgrounds, in all neighborhoods and communities. At Second Harvest, we see the real faces of hunger every day: Homeowners struggling with insurance and mortgage payments. College students working to cover loans and tuition. Moms and dads striving to provide a better future for their kids. Caregivers supporting their parents in old age. And a staggering one in five children, many of whom rely on free and reduced-price school breakfasts and lunches to get enough to eat.

At Second Harvest, we believe that change starts with honest, realistic conversations about the true face of hunger in our community. You can propel this crucial message forward through various forms of support and involvement.

To learn more about Second Harvest’s impact and services or how you can get involved, visit www.feedhopenow.org

Derrick Chubbs is President and CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida (SHFBCF). As the region’s largest food bank, Second Harvest secures and distributes enough food for 300,000 meals a day to more than 750 local nonprofit feeding partners across a seven-county service area. By also investing in job training programs and advocating for access to nutritious foods, SHFBCF is leaning into the root causes of hunger to help transform lives.

Second Harvest Awarded $200,000 in Federal Appropriations Funding

Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida recently received $200,000 in federal appropriations funding to enhance a vital component of its infrastructure.

On Monday, May 13, Congressman Maxwell Frost (D-FL 10th) presented Second Harvest president and CEO Derrick Chubbs with a check. The money will help the food bank purchase a new Thermal Energy Storage (TES) system, which will increase the efficiency of Second Harvest’s commercial freezer. The technology will also stabilize freezer temperatures in the event of equipment failure or power outages during natural disasters and better protect food from spoiling.

This upgrade not only strengthens Second Harvest’s ability to continue distributing high volumes of frozen foods and other perishable goods to neighbors facing hunger, but the energy cost savings will be invested in purchasing additional food to distribute to the community. One in eight Central Floridians – and one in five children – is at risk of experiencing hunger on any given day. Second Harvest is the region’s largest food bank and distributes enough food for 300,000 meals a day.

Orange County Supervisor of Elections Unveils New Precincts and Polling Locations

Orange County Supervisor of Elections, Glen Gilzean, announces the unveiling of new precincts and polling locations, a landmark moment in our county’s electoral process. With innovation and transparency driving these changes, our commitment to ensuring every voter’s journey to the ballot box is seamless and significant is steadfast. New Voter ID Cards are being mailed to voters affected by the changes starting today.

“In the face of rapid population growth, we’re not just adapting, we’re thriving. The creation of four new precincts and adjustments to seven polling locations ensures that every voice counts,” stated Supervisor Gilzean. “As we distribute new Voter ID Cards and provide voter education resources, we’re paving the way for smoother, more accessible elections. Together, let’s embrace change and empower our community to shape the future.”

These changes will impact approximately 25,000 voters across three areas of Orange County, including Lake Nona, Apopka, and Dr. Phillips/Williamsburg. The modifications involve two precinct boundary adjustments, the creation of four new precincts, and the renumbering of one existing precinct. This necessitates the establishment of seven new polling locations, bringing the precinct count from 255 to 259 in alignment with Resolution 2023-M-55 adopted by the Orange County Board of County Commissioners on December 12, 2023.

Voters can easily locate their polling place for the upcoming August and November elections by visiting our website and clicking on the “Find My Polling Place” icon on the homepage. Additionally, maps reflecting these changes are available at OCFElections.gov/district-and-precinct-maps. The updated precinct structure aims to enhance accessibility and streamline the voting process for all residents, ensuring that every voice is heard.

IN THE LAKE NONA AREA:

• Precinct 416 is being split in two to make a new precinct: 418

• Precinct 405 is being split into 3 to make 2 new precincts: 417 and 419

New Precincts & Polling Places:

- 417: HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS - 12150 PIONEERS WAY ORLANDO FL 32832

- 418: MOSS PARK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL - 9301 N SHORE GOLF CLUB BLVD ORLANDO FL 32832

- 419: HAMPTON INN & HOME2 SUITES ORLANDO SOUTHEAST NONA - 10002 EAGLE CREEK SANCTUARY BLVD ORLANDO FL 32832

New Polling Places (for existing precincts):

- 405: LAKE NONA MIDDLE SCHOOL - 13700 NARCOOSEE RD ORLANDO 32832

- 416: FIRE STATION 77 - 11501 MOSS PARK RD ORLANDO FL 32832

IN THE WILLIAMSBURG AREA:

• Precincts 117 and 119 are being extended to each take a portion of precinct 124, the polling locations will remain the same.

IN THE APOPKA AREA:

• Precinct 223 is being split into two precincts to make a new precinct: 242

New Precinct & Polling Place:

- 242: ONE WAY CHRISTIAN CHURCH - 2100 W MCCORMICK RD APOPKA FL 32703

IN DR. PHILLIPS AREA:

• Precinct 904 is being renamed Precinct 114 with a new polling location.

New Precinct Number & Polling Place:

- 114: SOUTHWEST MIDDLE SCHOOL - 6450 DR PHILLIPS BLVD ORLANDO 32819

Mayor Demings and Commissioner Cordero Open Downey Park Pickleball Courts

Orange County Mayor tried pickleball for the first time indoors at the South Econ Recreation Center to celebrate Older Americans Month.

After that, he and District 4 Commission Cordero cut the ribbon to open the 8 new outdoor pickleball courts at Downey Park.

Commissioner Cordero spoke with the Avalon Park area pickleball players in attendance - Tressa Juttlestad, Tom and Bonnie Walker, Joe Bellacera, Brenda Greene, Prudence Richards and Ed Lynt and said that the final negotiations are underway for building the Morgran Park on Innovation Way near Alafya Trail and across from Avalon Park.

Mayor Demings said that Orange County is about 200 years old, and Orange County Parks and Recreation is about 100 years old. He said that 1,000 people a week move to Orange County which currently has a population of about 1.3 million. He said by 2050, Orange County will have an additional 700K residents, and he said he recognized the importance of more parks and pickleball courts.

See below Mayor Demings talking about pickleball paddles with Tom Walker and Brenda Greene.

Marta Ariza won a Gold Medal in women’s singles at USTA Lake Nona, and a Silver Medal with fellow Avalon Park resident Marcos Pereira in Mixed Doubles. Also, Cheryl Beaulieu and Bonnie Walker won a Silver Medal in Women’s Doubles at USTA. At Pictona in Daytona Beach, Corey Coljeski and Julie Grabowski won a Gold Medal in Mixed Doubles, and Corey and Ken Nola won a Silver Medal in Men’s Doubles.

At the pickleball tournament fundraiser for Family Promise of Greater Orlando at ClearOne Sports in Orlando on May 18th, co-sponsored by Avalon Park Pickleball, they raised about $18K for children and families facing homelessness.

At pickleball tournaments this month, Avalon Park resident