Avalon Park Sun Orlando September 2021

KEEPING THE NEWS LOCAL & THE COMMUNITY CONNECTED.

SEPTEMBER 2021

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VOLUME 2 EDITION 9

Marketplace at Avalon Park Food Hall, General Store and Gathering Kitchen to Open in Downtown Avalon Park

Grand Opening Date Set for September 18th, 2021, Noon-8:00 pm PAGE 2

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COMMUNITY UPDATES

Marketplace at Avalon Park food hall will latest food and artisan creations in the heart of celebrate its grand opening event on Saturday, Downtown Avalon Park allows for the entire September 18th, 2021, Noon – 8:00 pm. community to enjoy unique culinary creations while supporting local artisans and innovators.”

Marketplace at Avalon Park occupies approximately 7,500 square feet of the ground Beginning September 7th, The Marketplace floor of the Avalon Innovation Center, located will hold a series of private soft opening events at 3801 Avalon Park East Boulevard. The before the grand opening date. After the grand food hall is comprised of 9 eatery bays with opening event, the operating hours will be indoor and outdoor seating to accommodate Sunday – Thursday, 11:00 am – 9:00 pm and over 200 patrons, a commissary kitchen, live Friday – Saturday, 11:00 am - 10:00 pm. entertainment and event space, a general store, indoor/outdoor bar and a gathering kitchen. “My vision for Downtown Avalon Park has The 9 eatery bays include: Rosso Specialty always been that it is a place where residents, Coffee, Sip ‘N Roll, Cheese to Share, Pico de neighbors, friends and family can come together Gallo, KBBQ Kitchen, NOLA Avalon Park, to connect in a place they feel like they belong,” Brazas Chicken, Lemonshark Poke, BBQ50. The says Beat Kahli, CEO, Avalon Park Group, “and indoor/outdoor bar is owned and operated by the Marketplace adds another element to the Bowigens Beer Company. Avalon General also city center for people to be able to do just that.” joins the line-up as a purveyor of provisions, with shopping features including high quality For more information visit www. wine, local makers, and artisans.

MarketplaceAtAvalonPark.com or contact Info@MarketplaceAtAvalonPark.com or 407“The offering at the Marketplace brings a multi- 730-3515. cultural diversity in dining all in one place,” says Derek McCracken, General Manager, Marketplace at Avalon Park. “Featuring the

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Coffee Hour with BEAT

For me Encore, Avalon Park’s assisted living and memory care community is one of the most important institutions in our town. At times I have even called Encore the “Town Hall” of Avalon Park.

When planning Encore more than a decade ago, we visited many assisted living communities. While we learned a lot, I found that one thing seemed to be missing, that was at the forefront of Encore’s design: community involvement. Even the most expensive assisted living communities cannot compare if they lack the integral component of being part of a community and that community being actively involved.

It has always been my vision to constantly evaluate and improve the services and care we provide at Encore.

With that in mind, shortly after we opened Encore in 2015, we invited a top executive of a well-known senior care company to visit and give us his opinion on our building, care and programming. I was pleased when he announced that he was impressed with the management, care, food, layout of the rooms, etc. But then he said one thing that still sticks with me to this day, “I am not sure if you can succeed with Encore at this location, it is surrounded by young families.”

He continued, “When our company plans new facilities, we look for an older demographic and you do not have that.” As a long-time entrepreneur I am used to fixing problems, and anything I could change, but of course not the location of Encore.

And with full conviction, I did not want to. I continued to believe that

the location of Encore was a strength family member who needs assistance and not a weakness as indicated by to live a full life, they have options just a few blocks away! We have daughthe industry-leader. ters and sons who live in Avalon Park When it came to the design of the En- and have loved ones at Encore and core building it was important to our visit them every day. Grandkids who entire team to include a space where go to school in Avalon are just a stroll people could gather. After all, when away from there great grandfather. you gather you begin to feel like you By and large most Encore residents belong, and that is where the founda- have strong ties to Avalon Park, eition for a healthy community begins. ther having lived themselves in the That space was named, Carnegie Hall, community or by moving to Encore and from the onset it was designed to to live closer to loved ones. That was serve as a meeting room and event the vision, and it was fulfilled. space where families, neighbors and friends could meet and interact. And I believe that one of the most importwhile this was a costly component ant elements in a healthy town is that to the building and very unique to a it is open to all ages. Currently, the senior living community, we felt it oldest resident at Encore is 104 years imperative that this feature should old and just last week, our youngest not be “value engineered” out of the resident was born in Avalon Park, building. Value is measure more than which means that the span of life just financially. We know that to pro- in our community is more than 100 vide a high value to our residents and years! I continue to believe assisted the community at large, this space living communities, like Encore, are a would be important and could serve great place for individuals who need as a heart of the community. I believe care. However, like anything in Avathat we were right, and I still think of lon, care is not exclusive to those conEncore as the “Town Hall” of Avalon sidered as seniors.

Park.

As I mentioned before we are always Everyday community organizations looking at ways to improve our care such as the American Legion, Jet Set- and programming and even as I write ters, Rotary Club of Avalon Park, Boy this, we are working on initiatives to Scouts, and public-school groups, just provide a broader spectrum of care to to name a few, use Carnegie Hall as an even wider population of all ages, meeting and event space. By doing so who need daily care as a part of a they not only meet our residents, but community. I firmly believe that like they interact and form relationships. Avalon Park at large, Encore will as It is such a joy to see young and old well become a complete community meeting and sharing life experience. for people of all ages who need assisEven when our building had visita- tance. tion restrictions for health and safety throughout the COVID pandemic, Stay Tuned! these organizations still found a way through technology and other creative means to interact with the residents.

GET IN TOUCH

I always wondered why one would not want to have their mom or grandfather close to them. With today’s urban sprawl, families are often hours apart from each other, but this is not the case in Avalon Park. Families have options for all ages to live a full and abundant life in the same community, all while being close to each other.

You can live with your family and if a

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

AvalonParkSun.com 3801 Avalon Park Blvd. East Ste. 400 Orlando, FL 32828 407-658-6565

ORHE-0286 RANDAL PARK_AVALON PARK_10x7.2.pdf

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1/13/21

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2:58 PM

NOW OPEN

CHOOSE EMERGENCY CARE CLOSER THAN EVER. At Orlando Health, part of caring for our neighbors is making sure everyone has access to expert emergency care. Opening soon, Orlando Health Emergency Room - Randal Park will provide even more Central Florida families with the highest level of safe, expert emergency care close to home.

OrlandoHealth.com/RandalPark

A service of Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital This is not an urgent care. Its services and care are billed at emergency department rates.

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From the Desk of Commissioner

Maribel Gomez Cordero Vaccinations are important now that our kids are back in school.

We moved the Barnett Park vaccination site to Camping World Stadium. This site is a partnership with the Florida Department of Health in Orange County and Orange County Government’s Health Services Department and they are providing free, convenient drive-thru vaccinations.

There are also appointments available for those unable to leave their home. For all of this information, visit https://www. orangecountyfl.net/.

tance with the application may visit a participating library, from Tuesdays through Fridays, to speak in-person with program representative.

National Hispanic Heritage Month starts September 15 and goes until October 15. It is a time in the United States where we recognize the contributions of Hispanic Americans to the history of the United States. I am proud to represent such a wide variety of Hispanic cultures and countries that contribute to our District and Region. Stay tuned Orange County’s Emergency for the events happening thought Rental Assistance Program con- out the county! tinues to accept applications from residents who are behind in rent As always, if you have any quesdue to COVID-19. It is important tions or concerns, or if you would to note that the City of Orlando like to receive my newsletter, you has its own assistance program can email me at district4@ocfl.net for its residents. Residents who or call my office at 407-836-5881. have questions or require assis- Blessings!

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The Evolution of Senior Living in Recent Years

Senior living communities have seen a lot of changes over time and, thankfully, have evolved past the poor living conditions that past generations of elderly adults had to endure. Today, senior living communities are dedicated to providing comfortable rooms, healthy meals, and enjoyable social activities for its residents. However, it’s always good to look back to the past to see how far we’ve come as a society in our treatment and value of senior lives.

were made for senior rights with the signing of the Social Security Act of 1935. Signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, this act provided greater government financial assistance Here’s a look at how senior living to the senior living centers of the conditions have evolved over time.

1930s—improving living conditions for elderly citizens around the UnitThe Origins of Senior Living The first historical examples of senior ed States. living were the almshouses of the Middle Ages. However, these medi- Senior Living in the 1970s eval houses were not just for seniors. In the 1970s, seniors saw the rise Almshouses were where elderly, dis- of more personalized care with the creation of assisted living communiabled, and even poor citizens were ties thanks to the mother of modern sent to live the rest of their lives. assisted living, Dr. Keren Brown While these homes were supported Wilson. This period was truly when by churches and religious institutions, they were known to have terri- assisted living evolved from being reminiscent of hospitals or wards to ble living conditions. becoming true communities for seThe Impact of the Social Security Act niors. on Senior Living For centuries, not much changed re- The Recent History of Senior Living The 1980s marked the beginning of garding the welfare or respect of senior citizens. However, great strides what many consider to be the mod-

ern age of senior living. The period saw the rise of senior living communities that look more like the average apartment than the clinical facilities of the past. An intentional focus was put on offering comfortable and home-like accommodations for seniors entering and living out their golden years. Furthermore, these modern communities offered premium amenities like fitness centers and game rooms.

Your Future Senior Living Solution Senior living has, indeed, come a long way over the years. If you’re looking for an assisted living community that is committed not only to meeting the modern standards of senior living but also innovating beyond them, then look no further than Encore at Avalon Park.

At Encore at Avalon Park, we are dedicated to providing our seniors with comfortable accommodations, nutritious meals, and plenty of activities to keep them active and social-making us the perfect assisted living community for you or your loved one. For more information on our premium senior living community in Central Florida, call us at 407-270-7500 to schedule your virtual tour today.

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Lighthouse CF’s Children’s Program

Participants from the Children’s and Transition Programs at Lighthouse Central Florida, which provides vision rehabilitation services to those living with vision impairment or blindness, recently visited the Central Florida Zoo, where they participated in the Seminole Aerial Adventures Rope Course. The rope course gave the kids the chance to practice their orientation and mobility skills, while those in the Transition Program also learned about the jobs available at the zoo. The zookeeper also provided a zoo animal sensory experience to participants from the Children’s Program.

The Children’s Program at Lighthouse Central Florida supports kids ages 5-13 and their families with services that enhance each child’s learning and ability to function independently, as well as engage with parents, guardians and family members. The Transition Program benefits students age 14-22 who are currently in the school system under an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), providing them with skills and experience to facilitate successful transition from high school to post-secondary activities, such as college, vocational school and employment.

Lupe assisted Señora Biondini with introductions in Spanish at Pinecrest Avalon!

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Florida Automobile Insurance Policies

Collision refers to coverage of the damages to your vehicle arising from an automobile accident or a collision.

Comprehensive refers to coverage of the damages to your vehicle arising from events that are not collision-related consisting of but not limited to theft, vandalism or even This serves as a brief summary of insurance coverage and hail. benefits involving automobile insurance policies of which You may be wondering what coverage is required in Floryou should be aware. ida and therefore don’t have to worry about adding to When purchasing your policy, it is important to select your automobile insurance policy. One such coverage is coverage that you can depend on in case you are ever in- Personal Injury Protection (PIP). The foregoing refers to volved in an automobile accident. There are many drivers the required benefits that are afforded by your automoout on the road without bodily injury (BI) coverage, for bile insurance carrier regardless of who is liable for the example. What is BI? It is the insurance coverage of the li- accident. These benefits consist of but are not limited to able party that may afford coverage for your personal in- 80% of your medical bills and 60% of your lost wages. jury claim for injuries you have sustained as a result of an automobile accident. So, what happens if the liable party Please keep in mind that the above is not a list of all covdoes not have BI coverage? You need to depend on your erage types. However, as this is only a brief informative own policy if your policy includes uninsured motorist or summary, all such additional information and details are underinsured motorist (UM) coverage. The foregoing is not included in this summary. Please be sure to become the insurance coverage you can count on when (1) the li- familiar with all exclusions listed in your policy and speak able party does not have sufficient or any BI coverage; (2) with your insurance agent about any changes that need to you have been injured as a result of an automobile acci- be made to your policy as soon as the need arises. dent caused by another’s negligence; and (3) you wish to Jessylin Polo Wiederhold, Esq. present a claim for such injuries.

Polo Wiederhold Law, P.A. Comprehensive and collision coverage is another coverage type that is important to include in your policy.

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT THE CONTENT OF THIS POST IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE BUT SERVES AN INFORMATIVE PURPOSE ONLY AND PERTAINS TO FLORIDA POLICIES.

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Florida’s Housing Market: School in Session, Median Price, New Listings Rise in August

By Selective Realty Group

price for condo-townhouse units was $253,000, up 20.5% over the year-ago figure. The median is the midpoint; half the homes sold for Florida Realtors’ data: Median prices for single-family existing homes more, half for less. rose 20.3% year-over-year to $355,000; up 20.5% to $253,000 for con- The data revealed signs that the state’s housing market is heading on dos/townhomes. a steady path toward normalcy, at least in some respects.

Craig Luiz, Broker with Selective Realty Group says July/August data “The 2.1% drop in closed single-family home sales marks the first shows signs Fla.’s housing market is heading on a steady path toward time that sales in this category have been down year-over-year at the normalcy. statewide level since May of 2020, near the beginning of the pandemic,” he says. “But remember, last year’s spring buying season was In July, Florida’s housing market reported higher median prices, effectively postponed until the summer and fall by the pandemic, so more new listings and a rise in all-cash sales compared to a year ago, the second half of 2020 ended up being the strongest second half for according to Florida Realtors® latest housing data. sales in at least 15 years. It’s not too surprising if sales counts over the next few months fail to surpass their totals from one year ago.

In a positive sign for Florida’s housing market, new listings rose yearover-year in July for both single-family homes, up 12.1%, and for “However, looking at 2019 – the last full year of anything resembling condo-townhouse properties, up 4.6%. Active listings (inventory) a normal market due to COVID-19 – we find that July 2021 sinof single-family homes continued to rise throughout July (from its gle-family home sales were over 9% higher compared to July 2019.” lowest level), which eventually could be good news for buyers who have been sidelined by the shortage of homes for sale. However, any In a continuing trend, the share of closed sales that were all-cash purrebound in inventory is going to be slow, and it will take a long while chases rose in July compared to the previous year. In July, single-famto get back to the levels we had pre-pandemic. ily existing home sales paid in all cash increased by 49.9% year-overyear, while all-cash sales of condo-townhouse units rose by 44%.

Closed sales of single-family homes statewide in July totaled 30,740, a slight decrease of 2.1% year-over-year, while existing condo-town- On the supply side of the market, inventory (active listings) remained house sales totaled 13,481, up 21.1% over July 2020. Closed sales may extremely tight in July. Single-family existing homes continued at a occur from 30- to 90-plus days after sales contracts are written. very low 1.2-months’ supply while condo-townhouse inventory was at a 1.8-months’ supply.

The statewide median sales price for single-family existing homes in July was $355,000, up 20.3% from the previous year, according to According to Freddie Mac, the interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate data from Florida Realtors Research Department in partnership with mortgage averaged 2.87% in July 2021, down from the 3.02% averlocal Realtor boards/associations. Last month’s statewide median aged during the same month a year earlier.

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Business Women’s Day is September 22nd!

Business Women’s Day is about honoring the increasing role that women have to play in the world of business today. While there is still some work that needs to be done for women to have a level playing field in all industries around the world, there is no denying that great leaps have been taken. This date is the perfect opportunity to acknowledge those strides and pay tribute to those that have had a massive role in making them.

The first ever Business Women’s Day was celebrated in 1983 when a joint Congressional resolution was passed.

Here are some ways to Celebrate Business Women’s Day: • You can celebrate Business Women’s Day by having the courage to break into a male-dominated industry if this is something that you have always wanted to do.

• It is also a good idea to use Business Women’s Day to try and connect with other people that work in the same industry as you. After all, there is definitely power in numbers.

• Another great way for you to celebrate Business Women’s Day is to mentor other women. Women have the ability to open doors for other women.

You don’t need to be a woman in order to honor Business Women’s Day. In fact, men should be embracing this date as well. Supporting females in business is one of the best things that you can do in order to celebrate Business Women’s Day. it is important to promote women in the workplace, as well as actively seeking more female candidates for every position that you have open in the future. You can also award women by buying from businesses that are owned by females. There are many different ways that you can support women in the business world, and this is something that we should not only

be encouraging on Business Women’s Day, but every day going forward. -Days of the Year **If you are business owner and would like to connect with other smart, like-minded women, join us for our next WOMANtrepreneur meeting at the 5th Floor in Avalon Park. Send an e-mail for more information on dates and times to: info@ womantrepreneur.org**

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Covid’s Effect on Small Businesses

By: Mary Marcella, Marie Brooks.

Photo by Leo Yong Avalon Mail Center

In 2019 when Covid-19 was first brought to fruition, no one truly expected the major economical effect it would have on not only major corporations like, Disney, American Airlines, and many other major companies that seemed untouchable. It came as a shock to not only our nation but to the entire globe that a virus could have such an influence over the economical progress of our world. What many people failed to realize, almost a little too late, is the numerous ways in which Covid-19 changed the course of small business.

Avalon Park residents have relied on the small businesses within our community to help make day to day life easier. For example, Avalon Park Cleaners, Complete Pools, East Side Bistro, and our very own Avalon Mail Center. A majority of these businesses within Avalon Park are run by private owners instead of large chains such as Publix and CVS. These businesses make their profit off the flow of their loyal customers they get throughout the year. Covid took away a lot of these businesses’ main sources of income. Without the constant flow of the Avalon residents it made it extremely hard for these shops we know and love to stay afloat. Though some businesses were not able to stay profitable throughout Covid, Avalon did receive new additions to the community. Such as Avalon Eatery, a new restaurant that is not only loved by many Avalon residents, but is also finding ways to give back to the community.

Avalon Mail Center, along with a majority of the small businesses and family run stores around Avalon, made quite a few minor adjustments in order to maintain their status and run smoothly. For Avalon Mail Center this consisted of changing the hours based on peak customer hours. Along with the obvious changes and precautions such as the mask mandate, regular cleaning, and taking extra precautions to ensure a safe, clean, and virus free environment for the customers and staff. Fortunately, Avalon Park residents during these difficult times took notice of the struggle that some of these businesses had and maintained their contributions to each of the businesses. For Avalon Mail Center that applies to all the loyal customers and personal mailbox users.

As the pandemic continues to affect our daily lives, we remind shoppers of the ways that they can do their part to help support the small businesses in their beloved communities. When it comes to enjoying your favorite restaurants, consider ordering straight from the business’ website in order to cut out the food delivery services middleman, who upcharge with expensive fees. Additionally, take the time to leave positive reviews for the businesses you visit frequently, which will influence new customers to shop there.

Also, keep up with your small business’ social media pages so you can like and share their posts. There you will find all the information on upcoming deals and specials, as well as new products and services, so do not miss out! Lastly, the best thing we can do for our communities is remember to be patient, as everyone is going through major changes during these tough times.

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www.Complete-Pools.com 407.704.1285 offIce@Complete-Pools.com 3588 Avalon Park E Blvd Ste 1

75th Anniversary Commemorative Golf Tournament The East Orlando Chamber of Commerce is 75 years old and celebrating this milestone on October 22nd with a commemorative golf tournament.

When searching for a location for an anniversary golf event, the historic Rio Pinar Golf Course was the obvious choice to host this tournament.

In 1955, the land around Rio Pinar was purchased with the vision to create and build a championship golf course with 350 surrounding homes. The renowned architect Mark Mahannah was hired to design the course, who became known for changing the landscape of golf in Florida. In 1959, the course and club house construction was completed and ready for play.

and country club. Mark you calendar for October 1962, marked the first 22nd to play and check Professional Golf Tourout the facilities. Every nament, the Carling golfer and golf fan must Open, which was won

by Bo Wininger. The first check out the hall of Rio Pinar golf history, it is PGA tour played on the not to be missed. Sponcourse, was the Florida sorships and interactive Citrus Open, won by tee booths are available Lionel Hebert in 1966. to showcase your busiThis tournament was ness and meet the playheld at Rio Pinar for 13 years hosting many well- ers. Individual players and foursomes are welknown golf legends including Gary Player, Jack come, and the public is encouraged to play, regNicklaus, Lee Trevino ister at www.EOCC.org. and Hale Irwin. In 1971, Don’t forget about the the King, Arnold Palmsilent auction, there are er won the tournament great prizes to be won. winning $30,000. The LGPA hosted the first Ladies Citrus Open in 1979 For 75 years we have supported our business which continued for the members and communext three years. nities in East Orange County providing a The Chamber is excitvoice, opening doors for ed to play this best ball tournament at the newly success, connecting memrenovated golf course

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bers with opportunities, educational business development and building professional relationships. Our members support our mission to advocate and 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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“CUB SCOUT RECRUITMENT NIGHT ” When: September 15th, 2021 at 6:00pm Where: Avalon Elementary School (cafeteria) Who: All students are welcome!

Kindergarten through 5th grade CubScoutsPack157@gmail.com

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SAVE THE DATE! The 14th Annual

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Purchase tickets at www.BTNwildlife.org

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2021-2022 Dance Classes Tap 3

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5:00-6:00 pm

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Classes begin August 23 and run through May 15, 2022.

Dance Recital is Sunday, May 15, 2022 Classes are $55 monthly for 10 months Multiple class discount—$10 off second class, $15 off third; monthly.

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Owloween Animal Encounters Marketplace Live Music Bake Sale Costume Contest Raffle

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DINING

PAPA GIO’S

PIZZERIA & RESTAURANT

3831 Avalon Park Blvd East, Orlando, FL 32828 (407) 380-3300 | www.papagios.com

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Coming together to create a healthy community

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Play with Your Food Article by Chef Gary Appelbegan to get a little older sies, Director of Healthy Eat- and could safely join me ing, YMCA of Central Florida in the kitchen, I wanted to ensure she enjoyed food and As a chef, you may think my cooking with me. So, when kitchen is a serious environit came time for meals, we ment—but on the contrary, I would make food into a can’t think of anything better game. Here are a few ways to than playing with your food! have fun in the kitchen and Now, I’m not talking about some ideas that could even pushing it around on your help you learn about and try plate so you can avoid eating some new foods! it or having a food fight at the dinner table, but rather Make a Food Collage having fun with some creThis is a fun activity for kids ative activities you can do in of all ages! Cut and slice the kitchen or at the dinner fresh fruits and vegetables up table. to create a piece of artwork.

Sculpt a silly face using Playing with your food can grape tomatoes or cucumber be a creative activity and rounds for eyes, sliced avocastimulate your senses. For do can be the eyebrows, creexample, once my daughter ate a nose from a carrot, and

a slice of red pepper for the mouth. You could also make a palm tree with a banana trunk and kiwi as leaves. See what else you can come up with! Cars? Boats? Houses?

It’s especially delicious over some freshly-cut fruit or berries. Check out the recipe catalog on our website for “Berry Salad” if you want our take on a classic treat.

Host a Family-friendly Cooking Challenge Many of us have watching cooking shows that add an element of competition for excitement. Bring this theme home by hosting your own good-spirited challenge in the kitchen. Split your family up into teams, and pick an ingredient or two that every chef must use in their dish.

Keep this game fresh (no pun intended) by mixing up the way you structure teams; one time can be parents versus kids, another time can be one parent with one child versus the other parent, etc. Give yourselves a time limit, and see who can come up with the best and most creative meal. No matter who wins, everyone can come together to enjoy the food and congratulate each other on a job well done!

Blindfolded Taste/Smell Test Test your senses with this fun activity! Set up small jars with small pieces foods that you have on hand, then blindfold your family members and have them guess each of the ingredients. Add some twists and get creative by using different textures like dry herbs, yogurt, or bananas!

Shake it Up Sure, whipped cream is easy to make, but have you ever thought of making it while having a dance contest? It’s fun for the whole family and can also help every get in a little exercise along the way.

JOIN THE Y COMMUNITY TODAY AND: RECONNECT with friends and family REDISCOVER everything we missed REIMAGINE your health and well-being And at the end of it all, we have REALIZED how integral a sense of community is to all. And at the heart of the community, is the YMCA. We were there before, we were there during and we are here for you now and are READY to help you REALIZE your full potential.

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.

• Place 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar in a cold jar or container. Don’t fill the container all the way to the top; there should be enough room for the cream to expand. Do make sure it’s sealed tightly to avoid any mishaps!

Grocery Store Scavenger Hunt This is perhaps one of my favorite activities, and it’s so simple to play. Create a list for your next trip to the grocery store and have your kids find each of the items. These are just a few suggestions based on my family’s list. See what else you can think of to add to your list!

- Find a fruit or vegetable for each color of the rainbow.

- Find one item in the produce section that came from the state of Florida.

- Find a cheese that came from a foreign country.

- Find a food you’ve never tried before.

- Find a package that has a recipe on it and make the recipe.

As I always say: the food we eat affects our mood just as much as our mood can affect our food choices. By making eating fun and incorporating plenty of fresh ingredients, your family can turn eating healthy into a lifelong habit that everyone will enjoy. Vis• Put on some music and it ymcacf.org/recipes for addance with the container, ditional ideas of dishes your shaking it vigorously while passing it from person to per- family can make together! son. Be sure you don’t spend too much time on the dance floor though—otherwise you may end up with butter instead.

• When you’re done, the cream should be thick and you can use it for dessert.

LIVE WELL

Challenge Yourself this September!

See What’s Happening this Month!

LIVE WELL

Wellness with Jen: School Is Back In Session! Sicknesses Are Back In Business Every year, when school resumes, it feels inevitable that no matter what we do as parents the kids will have some kind of some funk within the first few weeks. Even though it seems like a little funk is inevitable, there are a few things that we can do to potentially prevent the funk from being too terrible. *Reminder, I am not a doctor and will never claim to be. I am just a germaphobe with a passion for wellness* First and foremost, there are a few REALLY important things to keep in mind when it comes to prevention of illness and supporting your immune system. My husband has the mindset that if there is some kind of funk in the house, he is going to get it no matter what.

Because of this mindset, he doesn’t take the preventative measures that I so badly wish he would. Just because one member of the family catches some funk, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the entire household has to be taken down.

So what are these VERY important and really pretty simple preventative measures?

- Wash your hands - Hydrate - Be Aware of Gut Health - Take your supplements - Sleep and don’t stress - Boost your immune system If someone in the house is sick, I kick up my preventative measures a notch...

• In my opinion, if a bug invades your home, wash your hands excessively. I don’t mean to the point of causing your hands to dry out and crack (I have been guilty of doing this), but I mean when you

walk in the door from anywhere, after using the restroom, before you brush your teeth, before you touch any foods, before you put ANYTHING in your mouth,...

If you washed your hands then touched the fridge door handle, you need to wash again before touching your food. To many, this will seem like overkill, but you have to be aware of how easily germs are passed from someone who is ill to door handles, light switches, stair banisters, the remote, electronics,...

• HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE!! drink all the water...

During times of illness, whether you are sick or a family member is sick, do your best to ditch the sodas and juices, the alcohol, the caffeine. The sugary drinks will likely feed the illness, and alcohol or caffeine can dehydrate you.

• Take care of your gut! 80% of your immune system stems from your gut. Ditch the processed foods, ditch as much sugar as possible, take your probiotics.

• Take your supplements and BE CONSISTENT: If you are like me a couple of years ago, you don’t feel as though you need supplements because you eat a healthy diet. I was wrong! Foods do not hold the same nutrition that they used to.

Take your supplements, especially if there is illness around you. In the morning, I take my probiotics, a shot of antioxidant puree, a B vitamin complex, Fish Oil, and a multivitamin. In the evenings, I take Calcium with Vitamin D, Vitamin C, and a multivitamin. My kids take probiotics in the morning, along with their multivitamin and digestive enzyme with their antioxidant puree.

*If someone in the house is sick, I add Inner Defense capsules into the mix for myself.

Rest and avoid stress: easier said than done, I know, especially if one of the kids are sick and keeping you up, but do your best.

Regeneration happens while you sleep. Stress wreaks havoc on your system.

Boost your immune system with essential oils, elderberry syrup, and other wellness options.

In addition, when a bug invades the house, I diffuse in all rooms during awake hours and in bedrooms at night. I clean door knobs, counter tops, and bathrooms daily.

Now that I will have 2 kids, if 1 is sick and the other isn’t, toys will be divided and cleaned daily. Everyone has their own toothpaste.

Most families share toothpaste, but think about it... When you spread toothpaste on your toothbrush, you touch the bristle, do you not?

The germs from 1 family member can very easily be spread to the next. No sharing drinks, especially when someone is sick. And finally the most difficult recommendation to stick to... no kisses for anyone when there is an illness in the house.

All of this probably sounds excessive, but wouldn’t you rather take the time to prevent than have to take the time to care for multiple sick members of your family as well as yourself? I am not guaranteeing that doing all of the above will save you from catching anything and everything. We all get sick sometimes. It is the way that our body was created. We get sick, our immune system does its job, we recover, and we continue to

strengthen our immune system from there. What I can tell you is that although my kids don’t get sick often, they have brought home their fair share of bugs. In 5 ½ years, we have had 2 tummy bugs, 2 cases of HFM (1 pretty severe and 1 mild case), pink eye, possibly the flu, what I believe was Adenovirus, and a few mild colds.

I have come down with 2 mild colds and the potential flu that my daughter had a few years ago.

I have avoided everything else.

Yes, I have built a strong immune system from working with kids for many years, but on the same token I firmly believe that taking all of the preventative measures is what truly keeps me healthy. Take precautions, friends! Keep yourself healthy in all the craziness these days!

Jen Cosby jcdiamondwellness@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/yljennifercosby https://www.facebook.com/ groups/oilshowyouthewayed/ https://www.instagram.com/ jen_cosby/ https://www.instagram.com/ happy_holistic_momma/ *I have done extensive research on products and companies and choose to recommend Young Living products whole heatedly. Young Living has a Seed to Seal promise that guarantees from the time that the seed is selected and planted to the time that the product arrives on your doorstep, no harmful ingredients will come in contact with that product at any step along the way. Young Living goes as far as testing their soil and using their own essential oils to protect against pest in lieu of using harmful pesticides. Young Living performs their own testing in addition to third party testing to guarantee that you receive the most effective and most beneficial products. Every ingredient is clearly labeled on each product. **I am not a doctor and do not claim to diagnose, treat, and/ or cure any ailment. I am only sharing my experiences and results of what I have used for my own personal use and that of my family. I empower everyone to do their own research and decide what products work best for them and their family. In the event that medical attention is needed, seek medical attention.

Here is a list of the goodies that I use in our home to keep us healthy: What supplements do I take? Daily: • Synergy Company Vita-Min-Herb Women’s Multivitamin • Synergy Company Pure Radiance C • Young Living’s Ningxia Red • Young Living Super B Tablets • Young Living OmegaGize • Young Living SuperCal Plus • Young Living’s Essentialzymes-4 • Young Living’s Life 9 Probiotics • Preschooler J takes Young Living’s Ningxia Red and MightyVites, and Natren LifeStart Probiotics When Needed: • Young Living’s Inner Defense Softgels What soap and hand sanitizer do I use?

• Thieves Foaming Hand Soap • DIY Foaming Hand Soap • Thieves Hand Sanitizer What do I do when I can’t get my mind to stop racing when it is time to rest?

I roll on my Young Living Tranquil Roll-On, and I get my diffuser going.

What do I use to make my immunity roller?

In my immunity rollers, I add 15 drops Thieves Essential Oil Blend, 10 drops Lemon Essential Oil, 8 drops Frankincense Essential Oil, and 5 drops Copaiba Essential Oil to a 15ml roller. Then I top off the roller with a carrier oil of choice. I typically use Avocado Oil because my daughter’s sensitive skin does not react to it.

What do I diffuse if there is funk going around our house?

It really depends on what germs are in the air, but I mainly will diffuse Thieves, Lemon, Lime, and Peppermint as an overall great smelling immunity booster.

• If there is a tummy bug or general nausea in the house, I diffuse AromaEase and Peppermint.

• If there is congestion in the house, I diffuse Raven or RC, Lavender, Lemon, and Peppermint.

If you are not used to a routine, it can sound overwhelming, but don’t let it! I have everything that I need located in spots throughout the house that are completely convenient for me.

Prevention is key when it comes to our health and wellness, but when something gets us down, being prepared is what keeps the consistency of using our products simple.

COMMUNITY CORNER

Avalon Park Foundation

The Avalon Park Foundation is dedicated to encouraging community! Additional donations were brought to local friends and neighbors to take part in positively influencing schools to help them kick the year off! our community through service.

This Summer the board welcomed two new directors: Physical Education Teacher – Billy Bass and Nicole Carreira from CPA Solutions. After a year long hiatus from events, the Foundation was able to re-instate the annual Firecracker 5K run on the 4th of July! A portion of the proceeds this year went to our friends at the Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge & Education Center.

One of the primary functions of the Foundation events is to fundraise for scholarships, community outreach and grants programs. If you would like to support these efforts, you can do so by supporting the upcoming fall programs, which include the Grace Foley Rock Your Socks 5K on October 2nd, the annual Turkey Trot 5K on November 25th and the food and turkey drive during the month of November.

For more information on volunteering, dontating or Additionally, this years’ Back to School Bash was also a getting involved, visit AvalonParkFoundation.org and success. Thanks to our sponsors and volunteers, we were follow us on social media at AvalonParkFoundation. able to distribute 500+ bags of free school supplies to the

COMMUNITY

What Is Happening Around Avalon Park?

Avalon Park Corvette Club

All-Star Dance Company Grand Opening

Polo Wiederhold Law Grand Opening

Gracie Jiu Jitsu Grand Opening

Theory Bridal House Grand Opening

COMMUNITY

Overwhelming Community Support of the 2021 Rotary Craft Beer Festival Results in a $7,000 Donation Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) is the most common birth defect affecting one in one hundred children worldwide, and research for the disease is grossly underfunded. The Yellow Brick Road Foundation, a local charity whose mission is to increase funding for those children and their families, is making progress towards ending CHD and the Rotary Club of Avalon Park is in full support of their efforts.

critically ill children with mobility, a much-needed escape from their hospital room.”

“We encourage local residents to come out and support our events like the Beer Craft Festival, Holiday Wine Walk and others that are held nership really took to CHD. He chose to raise funds in support of orgato turn a very difoff.” ficult situation into nizations like the Yellow Brick Road At a weekly meet- one that would ing in August, the help others under- Foundation,” said stand the fight his Jim McQueeney, Rotary club prePresident. “To family faced. sented a check learn more about to Flynn in the Rotary please feel How does the amount of $7,000 free to drop by our from the proceeds foundation supIn 2018, a Rotariport children with weekly meeting on of the Craft Beer Wednesdays at 7:30 an discovered the CHD? “Care bags Festival. “Yellow Yellow Brick Road Brick Road is apand financial assis- AM at the Pavilion (Avalon Park POA Foundation on a preciative of Rota- tance allow fambuilding) - we look local podcast. “The ry’s efforts and this ilies stuck in the forward to meeting hosts of the podhospital to focus donation will be cast were having used to help many on recovery,” said you!” a fundraiser and Flynn. “Our scholfamilies,” stated Those interested I heard the interTrey Flynn, Presi- arship program view,” said Julia gives them peace of in supporting the dent. “We will do Thompson, Rotamind that hospital Yellow Brick Road our part by prory Club of Avamoting awareness bills won’t prevent Foundation can dolon Park member. and lobbying the their children from nate HERE. “It sounded like a legislature to end going to college. great organization CHD,” We also provide and one I had nevhospitals with wager heard of even Flynn, a board-cer- ons capable of towthough they were ing IV poles. The tified criminal atbased right here in torney, started the wagons are made Orlando. I decided Foundation when of non-porous mato introduce them he and his wife lost terials and stainless to our club memtheir son, Holden, steel. They provide bers and the part-